Obama Expands on 'Bitter' Pennsylvanians Comment

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) shakes hands before he speaks during a town hall meeting at Terre Haute North Vigo High School in Terre Haute, Ind., April 11, 2008. (Associated Press)

By Shailagh Murray
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Sen. Barack Obama didn't back down from "Bittergate." At a town hall meeting here tonight, he repeated the offending word three times.

The tough times of small-town America have been a running theme throughout his campaign, and Obama seemed genuinely alarmed that Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and John McCain had both seized on a comment he made Sunday to a group of San Francisco donors. Asked why he was lagging behind Clinton in Pennsylvania, the Illinois senator launched into a lengthy discourse on empty promises and political disenfranchisement. Although no reporters were present, his comments were taped and posted today on the Huffington Post, a liberal online media company.

"Our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives," Obama told the group. "You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

Obama has pursued related themes in a variety of different public forums, including embedded in a speech on race relations that he delivered last month in Philadelphia. He often reminds crowds in his stump speech that he started out as a community organizer, helping Chicago residents to recover when a local steel plant closed. And his pledge to crack down on special interests is part of his pitch to bolster the little guy. "You don't have a lobbyist," he told the Terre Haute crowd.

Then Obama turned to the San Francisco imbroglio, quoting more or less directly and even expanding on his original remarks.

"That's what people understand about politics these days: The game is fixed. It's not working for ordinary Americans. When I go around and talk to people, there is frustration, and there is anger, and there is bitterness. And what's worse is when people are expressing their anger, and politicians try to say, what are you angry about?"

When a donor asked him why he was having trouble converting voters in Pennsylvania, Obama said he responded, "Well look, they're frustrated. And for good reason. Because for the last 25 years, they've seen jobs shipped overseas. They've seen their economies collapse. They have lost their jobs, they have lost their pensions, they have lost their health care. And for 25, 30 years, Democrats and Republicans have come before them and said, we're going to make your community better. We're going to make it right. And nothing ever happens.

"And of course they're bitter. Of course they're frustrated. You would be too -- in fact many of you are. Because the same thing has happened here in Indiana, the same thing has happened across the border in Decatur, the same thing has happened all across the country. Nobody is looking out for you. Nobody is thinking about you."

He even hit the same social hot-buttons that Clinton and McCain pointed to, as evidence of Obama's elitism. "And so people don't vote on economic issues, because they don't expect anybody's going to help them. People are voting on issues like guns, are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage. They take refuge in their faith and their community and their families and the things they can count on. But they don't believe they can count on Washington."

And he returned fire on both his critics. "Here's what's rich. Senator Clinton says, I don't think people are bitter in Pennsylvania. I think Barack's being condescending. John McCain says, he's obviously out of touch with people. Out of touch? John McCain, it took him three tries to figure out the home foreclosure crisis was a problem and to come up with a plan for it, and he's saying I'm out of touch? Sen. Clinton voted for a credit card sponsored bankruptcy bill that made it harder for people to get out of debt, after taking money from the financial services companies, and she says I'm out of touch?:

The crowd listened silently when Obama started his explanation, but now people were on their feet, stomping and clapping.

"No, I'm in touch. I know exactly what's going on. I know what's going on in Pennsylvania, I know what's going in Indiana, I know what's going in Illinois. People are fed up. They're angry and they're frustrated and they're bitter, and they want to see a change in Washington, and that's why I'm running for president of the United States of America."

The Clinton campaign jumped on Obama's explanation, blast e-mailing it out to reporters.

"Instead of apologizing for offending small town America, Senator Obama chose to repeat and embrace the comments he made earlier this week," said Clinton spokesman Phil Singer. "It's unfortunate that Senator Obama didn't say he was sorry for what he said. Americans are tired of a President who looks down on them -- they want a President who will stand up for them for a change. The Americans who live in small towns are optimistic, hardworking and resilient. They deserve a president who will respect them."

He doesn't deserve to spend the night in the WH. He and his angry, spoiled wife need to step down. No, America is not ALL bitter, some of us feel blessed to live in the greatest country on earth,.

Posted by: marie | April 17, 2008 7:25 PM

Wayne, interesting statistic. (You have more patience than I do.) I might also point out that ALL the McNutjob supporters, and a good half of Hillary's w^ores, have truly atrocious spelling, grammar, and even typing. Is that why the education system has been systematically dumbed-down for the last half century? Because people who can think and read will vote for whackjobs when they're told to?

As for what their rants reveal about their need for psychiatric treatment, or at least their need to get off the drugs, well, anyone who votes against their own economic and ecological self-interests on basis of their p3nis substitute really, seriously, is too $tupid and psych0tic to even be ALLOWED to have an opinion.

(Yes, the substitutions were deliberate.)

Posted by: The Die Hard | April 17, 2008 11:11 AM

McCain is senile, and a neocon disaster waiting to happen. He's also a billionaire. You think he gives a rat's carcass about working people?

The Clintons are billionaires, and Hillary is, at best, a power-mad b^tch. She's also a liar. "I was under fire," my missing toe.

Obama is right on. A lot of us ARE bitter, and have every right to be. If church or guns make you feel better about having your jobs stolen, and being taxed to bail out billionaires, then you need psychiatric help.

Me, as a white woman with a Masters in engineering who can't get a job in either a small town (Cocoa) or a large one (Chicago) because of the bushdick destruction of the economy, I think Senator Obama was being too mild. It isn't bitterness I feel, it's HATRED -- for the bushdicks, for the stupid psychotics who voted for the bushdicks and are even CONSIDERING supporting that senile war-monger McNut, and for the Clintons, for not pursuing charges of treason against George Herbert Walker Bush when they could and should have, and thereby subjecting us to the past eight years of mass murder and ruination.

Obama wasn't my first choice -- Edwards was -- but anyone who attacks him over saying that we have a right to feel bitter when our jobs are shipped overseas is too god*amn stupid to be allowed to HAVE an opinion, so shut up and stay home.

Posted by: The Die Hard | April 17, 2008 10:53 AM

Sorry, Clinton supporters, read it and weep:

Obama moves to largest lead yet in Gallup tracking poll:

Three days' worth of polling after the news broke that Sen. Barack Obama said some small-town voters are "bitter," he has edged out to his largest lead yet in Gallup's daily national tracking survey.

Gallup says Obama leads Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton 51%-40% according to its Saturday-Monday poll of 1,312 Democrats and voters who "lean" Democratic. Yesterday, Obama lead 50%-40% (matching what had been his largest lead until today). The margin of error: +/- 3 percentage points.

Posted by: annonymouse | April 15, 2008 3:37 PM

txpoet is a true example of the people that Obama was talking about.
txpoet, don't put your beliefs and views on me.

Posted by: annonymouse | April 15, 2008 11:18 AM

Obama is probably the antichrist, the bible speaks of him coming from the Middle east, which Kenya roots is just that. People are like in a trance when they listen to this fool.
Bush signed that order to take effect soon a world order thing, which signifies the mark of the beast in your forehead or hand or you can not sell or buy anything.
Voting Obama in means we are dooming this country. Parents, do you want to help process the mark of the beast and watch your children starve? A vote for Obama is just that.
I believe he is a muslim and lying that he isn't. We have a photo with him in the garb, we have a photo of him not pledging allegience, we have his wife saying she is for the first time proud of America, we have Obama speaking for voters saying they are bitter, and listening 20 years which he so boldly boasts of the minister which is a torch and shame to even teach from a pulpit. Barack Obama is a fearful name in itself. At 911, if we had heard the name, we would have cringed, hello, people need a wake up call. 2 years ago we did not know who Obama was, now he is a well known figure? So what he was a statesman 8 years. He has little to none as Senator. I suspect he would use his color to also payback ancestors worth of mistakes, when today's white people are not like that anymore.
I also suspect gerrymandering happening, which is causing the caucuses to be won by Obama. It means unfairness due to redrawing district lines to favor a political figure, based on race or democrat/republican party. Look it up and see if you feel same way.
When I look at Obama, I see a man who thinks he knows it all, but is not sincere, and way out of touch with America. I see a man out for his own pie n the sky moment, because he can make history with his color issues.
He is not concerned for America, he is vain and out for himself.Just draw some horns on him and see what you get. He is muslim, he is lying about not being one.
The antichrist will be like muslim, wanting to kill if not followed. Is this someone yall want as President?

Posted by: txpoet | April 14, 2008 10:03 PM

Obama calls small town America "bitter" to explain why it wont vote for him. How does he justify his choice of words. Washington has caused innumerable hardships to small town america in the name of free trade but simple minded rural Pennsylvanians blame Obama, the ultimate OUTSIDER, for that. Thats why they wont vote for him. Good reasoning indeed. He basically tells, rural Pennsylvanians wont vote for him because they are bitter and they are bitter because they are dumb to blame him , the OUTSIDER, for Washington's mistakes. So actually he meant to tell they were DUMB and not just BITTER. Good going Senator. Now how are you going to explain why you refer to small town America as "DUMB".

Posted by: Karan | April 14, 2008 8:09 PM

he said what he thinks, and because it wasn't a pre-meditated, sterilized, politically polished sound-byte, people are in an uproar. "I'M OFFENDED!"

boo-hoo

switch camps, go to the clinton campaign where she's feeding you a tested and poll-approved line of political BS, just LIKE EVERY POLITICIAN THIS COUNTRY HAS SEEN FOR 40YRS!

IMO, all he had to stick in that "offensive" comment (apparently PA isn't bitter, they're just crybabies) was "they cling to guns and religion AS VOTING CRITERIA." which is true. its not just PA, its all of us. i think he's dead on. i don't vote for the guy promising an improved economy, because we're all cynical and rightfully so. how many have made that promise? how many have delivered?

but the guy who promises NOT to take your gun, or the one who promises to keep gay marriage illegal... well, if it matters to you, at least you can count that he'll probably keep his word on it.

why is it like this? because while we're all fighting over blue and red, guns or control, gay marriage... both sides (dems/rep) are just playing 90% of us against each other, while shaking hands and taking OUR money!

but we're too busy being offended by a politicians off-the-cuff comments aren't we?

Posted by: Andrew | April 14, 2008 5:23 PM

Ofcourse people turn to their faith when times are bad, and worry about their safety, and their right to protect themselves when unemployment rises around them. What's wrong about discussing polling results about people's true concerns? The question is why are things so bad in parts of the greatest nation on earth? There is no good reason for things being bad right now in the USA. On top of that, Bush wants to build I-69 to ship the goods now made in Mexico straight through to Walmarts in Canada (without even stopping in the US). And Hillary pretends to support the 2nd Am to distract voters from her husband's role in NAFTA? Obama is the only one to admit (even if reluctantly) that the 2nd Am is an "individual right" (what the NRA is arguing before the Supreme Court right now). The Clinton gun ban expired, but the Bush ban is still in effect. I'm glad Obama speaks the truth, when the others speak out of both sides of their mouth!

Posted by: brad obregon | April 14, 2008 4:04 PM

"the little guy" I love it when politicians use that term to describe Americans. I always thought in the US the "little guy" were the politicians. Ah, the good 'ol days, before Big Brother took over.

Posted by: Mario | April 14, 2008 3:51 PM

Growing up in a small town in Southwestern Pennsylvania, I can say that I understand what Obama meant by his comment, and agree with him 100%. I think he hit the mentality of rural/small town people right on the head.

Posted by: A Voice From Small Town, America | April 14, 2008 10:53 AM

Wow! I just skimmed through all the comments. Sure is a lot of hate, bitterness, anger, racism, elitism and uber dislike of Clinton, Obama, and McCain out there. While I was skimming through the comments I thought I'd take a little survey and count the pro-Obama vs the anti-Obama comments. I eliminated the repeats, comments that didn't address the issue, and apparent goof ball comments. I came up with 340 total comments of which 220 were pro-Obama and 120 anti-Obama. That comes out to 65% pro-Obama and 35% anti-Obama. If these numbers are even close to reflecting the public's reaction to this flap, the media, Hillary, and McCain blew it. Obama will now have the opening to tap into the deepseated bitterness and anger in this country. We'll all get to see how this plays out in the coming days and weeks.

Posted by: Wayne | April 13, 2008 6:27 PM

Posted by: Wayne | April 13, 2008 10:24 PM

I'm bitter. Angry too. Conservatives have screwed up this country but good. Neither Hillary Clinton nor John McBush will do anything to make it better. A vote for either of them is a vote for more same-o, same-o.

I'll try Obama.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 13, 2008 8:02 PM

Quote: "He will do nothing but flounder in the White House and the DNC and his RICH BACKERS WILL BE getting richer as we pay for his stupidity."

So you admit that he will be in the White House. I also heard that he was going to banish all racist idiots to Siberia. Bye.

Obama connects with people.See his audience.
He is a **ray** of HOPE.
We need a REAL CHANGE in America or we self-destroy ourselves in COMPLETE.
Ou economy is in DIRE SHAPE thanks to Clinton insiders: her IRAQ WAR, is taking BIG TOLL on our middle class and the poor and JOBLESS & HOMELESS!

BARAK OBAMA '08.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Posted by: Tariq Ahmed | April 13, 2008 5:16 PM

I'm bitter. angry and mad as hell. It's about time that someone talk about what is really going on.

P.S. I see McBush is not attending the Compassion Forum tonight. Funny, I thought he represented the Compassionate Party!

Posted by: Bitter Man | April 13, 2008 4:58 PM

The posters who are attacking Obama don't seem to be Clinton supporters either. He can't help it if Republicans aren't for him. They have their anger-junky McCain. Let's see what his plan is for helping the middle class, if you can get his mind off Iran and war for a minute.

Posted by: mlk | April 13, 2008 4:54 PM

God help Hillary now. She has walked into a trap from which there is no escape.

The new position she has to defend is that everybody is happy and everything is going great. People aren't scared, nor are they unhappy with Washington... and if you say they are, you're an elitist.

LOL!

This is brilliant...

-Wexler

Posted by: William W. Wexler | April 13, 2008 4:52 PM

Hey... has anyone ever thought that HUSSEIN may be 'bitter' because he is a bi-racial male in the United States. He is not entirely black, nor is he white either.

Note that he managed to be too busy to visit his MOM on her death bed. Also note that on his applications to the ELITE PRIVATE, AND TO THE ELITE COLUMBIA AND HARVARD SCHOOL OF LAW that he did not say bi-racial... He was black.

He told us that he was Christian and avoided the Issue of Muslim and BLACK AFRICAN RELIGION that has taught him to hate.. WHITE American, and the United States for 20 plus years.

He is a MYSTERY MAN.. the only history we know about him... IS WHAT HE WANTS US TO KNOW. He is a slick talking politician that sees power, fame and MONEY AT THE end of the PRESIDENCY.

He will do nothing but flounder in the White House and the DNC and his RICH BACKERS WILL BE getting richer as we pay for his stupidity.

BEWARE THE BLACK WOLF IN LAMB'S CLOTHING.

(Wolf hides in a lamb skin... to slip up and KILL all the LAMB'S in the flock.) TAKE

Posted by: Miller51550 | April 13, 2008 3:00 PM

There is an underlying truth to what Obama said and truth can hurt and be offending. He is referring to those who are stuck in the past and not willing to evolve within the change that's been taking place in America in the last century. Let's face it, the WORLD IS FLAT and we need to adapt, not clinging to the old mentality and putting the blame outwardly. There is nothing elitist about Obama's statement and whether we want to hear it or not he will continue to speak the truth in order to make a change!

Posted by: tora | April 13, 2008 12:40 PM

"Why are people so upset that he [Obama] stated the truth?"

Amen and enough said.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 13, 2008 10:58 AM

Obama hit the nail right on the head. He's to be commended for his honesty. I'm from a small town and am upset. I see some promise in him that things will begin to happen for the betterment of our country. My vote is for Obama

Posted by: JP | April 13, 2008 7:30 AM

I am shocked at some of the comments and behavior in this blog. Do people think americans are happpy about what is happening to their country and life? Their sons and daughters are dying in a War that were based on lies and you think they should not be angry and bitter? They are loosing their jobs and homes becasue of political policies? They are dying on the street becasue they can't afford healthcare. Are you saying they should just accept it and not complain? What do you take Americans for? Fools who have to accept every thing that are thrown at them by poltician? For refusing to recognise the feelings of ordinary americans, McClinton are the people out of touch with ordinary americans and not Obama. He is been down there with ordinary people and he is listening. Those are the expressions of ordinary americans. Let the old style polticians know that we americans have wised up, pissed off, angry and bitter. We can't take it anymore. That is why we support Obama. The old politics is dead.

Posted by: nsiah7 | April 13, 2008 4:50 AM

Can someone backing Obama explain to me how he is going to be elected and walking into Washington:
and unite it, make it work for us?
and pull the US out of Iraq (within the first year..his OWN words or promise, depending on the report you read)?
and magically fix social security, healthcare and unemployment?
and redefine education?
How, he won't, he is only a junior Senator,missed numerous votes or voted only present on major issues that drastically effect the country and it's presence in the world. For some reason, he thinks that he will change everything when he is President and has, by the gift of speaking and good line, when of course it suits the audience, has gotten so many to actually believe him. Got news for you Obama fans, if and thats a big if, he gets into the White House, and starts throwing that kind of attitude around the "truely experienced and seasoned members", they will "eat him for lunch", there is no way he can accomplish what he has promised to do in 4 years let alone 8! Watch and see.

Posted by: Frankie58 | April 13, 2008 4:36 AM

Continue the reality check sen. Obama,it's always good and we all need it.

Posted by: Eduardo | April 13, 2008 1:43 AM

well, the right wingnuts, racist, gun -toting, war loving Rep.(Hillary included) need 4 more yrs. of what we have had and deserve what we will get.The people of Penn. should be protesting(that includes Hillary) the closing of the York Patty Factory. Those people ought to be real bitter by the end of 4 more yrs. of the same. The superdelg. should be able to see the swiftboat ad with Hillary underfire in Bosnia.They wont't be able to do the ad that she is 60 and had a sr.moment because J. McSane is 100 just like the yrs. we are going to be in Iraq. Just think, less jobs, more people to sign up for that 100 yr. war. Need more troops? John McSane will bring back the draft. Good enough for V. Nam it will work for the next war -Iran.Then we will see who is crying in their beer. DB

Posted by: dona bee | April 13, 2008 1:42 AM

Forget the presidency, Hillary just needs to go for next year's best actress Oscar. Have you noticed how she now has her sad, compassionate face and her empathetic voice. Once she gets these votes she'll kick the average man and woman of PA, OH, IN, and everywhere else to curb.

How many Saudis will have a room in White House? How many religious hunters will? Hmmm.

Posted by: Mike I. | April 12, 2008 11:14 PM

Ed Rendell is on CNN and he just said that the last 6 or 7 years have been great in Pennsylvania. He said thousands of jobs have been added in PA. If things are that good there, maybe everyone should vote for McCain who will continue the policies of the last 6 or 7 years. He also said that while he thinks Hillary is more electable he thinks Obama would win PA in the general if he is the nominee.

This shows that Obama is a hipocrate. He will say one thing to his elite and rich donors and another thing to the working class Americans to be elected. They look down on the working class because they did go to elite schools like him and his wife. They don't have the opportunity to find a better jobs and became rich like his donors and supporters. They cannot afford to contribute to Hillary's campaign much as they like to. Obama and Michelle hidden anger for Americans, especially the working class who clings to Hillary for hope , will feel his anger and revenge once elected. This what Rev.Wright taught him for 21 years.
Please Americans wake up before it is too late.
Vote for Hillary who is the most qualified and the best candidate for president.

Posted by: AE | April 12, 2008 10:32 PM

8.54 persio, please keep your vote -it ain't worth a penny. Vote for someone with the same intelligence as you like McChain or HullBull!

Posted by: charles Kreekhammer | April 12, 2008 10:28 PM

Oh my God! Did Hillary really vote for the war? What rational human being would do such a crass thing?

Posted by: Charles Kreekhammer | April 12, 2008 10:25 PM

This shows that Obama is a hipocrate. He will say one thing to his elite and rich donors and another thing to the working class Americans to be elected. The look down on the working class because they did go to elite schools like him and his wife. They don't have the opportunity to find a better jobs and became rich like his donors and supporters. They cannot afford to contribute to Hillary's campaign much as the like to. Obama and Michelle hidden anger for Americans, especially the working class who clings to Hillary for hope , will feel his anger and revenge once elected. This what Rev.Wright taught him for 21 years.
Please Americans wake up before it is too late.
Vote for Hillary who is the most qualified and the best candidate for president.

Posted by: AE | April 12, 2008 10:21 PM

I agree with a lot of the comments on this board. Obama isn't going to back down from this comment b/c the idea behind it was true. The Queen of Exploitation and Pandering will try and play this for all its worth and in the end it's going to backfire.

With 81% of the nation thinking we're headed in the wrong direction, you don't think people are disillusioned and bitter over the state of Washington? That's the whole concept of Obama's campaign is that he's trying to call us out of this cynicism.

He was right on the money and as much as the media wants a controversy with this, the Clintons are going to be caught with egg on their face if they keep milking it (which it's too late, she already has). So she can't distance herself from stirring up the pot now -- desperate times call for desperate measures.

Mr. Obama's quote was made to a group of wealthy San Francisco donors in response to a question about why he was behind in the polls in Pennsylvania. The tone of his entire response is condescending and offensive--not simply the final two sentences. In Senator Obama's response, he again raises the race card and suggests that the people of Pennsylvania don't respond to his message because it's brought to them by a black man. The audience begins laughing and as the laughter continues, he adds more disparaging comments about small town Americans.

Rather than taking a positive approach about his campaign strategies, Mr. Obama grouped together all people who prefer another candidate as bitter, ignorant and cynical. He played to possible biases that his wealthy San Francisco donors might have about the working class. The fact that informed voters may be making an educated decision to vote for HRC is lost on him and makes him seem arrogant and out of touch. There is no excuse for any politician to tap into stereotypes or to make disparaging statements about poor, rural, white America. Senator Obama's words were extremely divisive and do not reflect the attitude of someone who could unite our country.

For those who say that his words have been twisted, listen to the laughter when Mr. Obama talks about the gun-loving, xenophobic people of Pennsylvania.

Posted by: Wilson | April 12, 2008 10:05 PM

I'm an Obama supporter, but there's no question that he blundered here. Of course, McCain also has blundered on many occasions, like when he said that Iran was supporting Sunni insurgents, but that only shows that McCain is dumb. In a country that elected Bush twice, being dumb does not disqualify you for high office. But being seen as an "elitist" who does not have the proper respect for people's religion or their guns -- well, that CAN cost you an election. For the sake of the country, I hope it does not cost Obama this one.

Posted by: lydgate | April 12, 2008 9:23 PM

No name Obama supporter - The topic here is how Obama says one thing and then changes his opinion to fit the agenda in his favor. Sorry but Hillary isn't the one being scrutinized here, is your messiah Obama. Too bad he thinks that bitter small town people are clinging to religion and guns to escape reality. I am not a gun owner nor a religious person but i find those lines very insulting and demeaning to the hard working people of this country. He is intelligent enough to have known that those words would have been controversial.

Read about Hillary the flip flopper above and then think on it.
I'm voted for the war, but I'm against it. I love guns, but I backed gun control. I ducked sniper fire in Bosnia, but I really didn't, I just mis-spoke.

Be more careful Obama when u speak, remember you will need the voters of bitter small towns. Stop flip flopping like you have in the past. First you defend you remarks then realizing that many many people were upset over the comments then you apologize. Is this is how you want to become president? NOBAMA

"Stepping up the Clinton Administration's campaign against gun violence, Hillary Rodham Clinton used an emotional White House ceremony today to call on Americans to press Congress to ''buck the gun lobby'' and pass several gun control measures."

Whichever way the wind is blowing, Hillary. What a habitual liar.

Posted by: wly34 | April 12, 2008 8:30 PM

The focus here should not be on the word, Bitter. Obama said " -they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."
He is talking about small town people clinging to guns. Small town people clinging to religion. Small town people having antipathy toward people not like them. Small town people being against immigrants.
Sounds alot like an elitist attitude to me. When will people start seeing Obama for the person he really is.

Posted by: C.L. | April 12, 2008 8:18 PM

Obama essentailly classified American people into two types: The type of people who do not support him as the "bitter people". The type who support him, well, they are just fine.

Uniter? No way.

Come election day, bitter people can unit to defeat Obama.

Posted by: G.Y. | April 12, 2008 7:43 PM

Anyone else Tired of having Obsama talk his way out of things YET? ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 12, 2008 7:34 PM

This reminds me of a "Simpsons" classic.

Two bumpkins are standing next to a fence.

Bumpkin #1: "I came home and found my wife sleeping with my best friend."

Bumpkin #2: "You bitter?"

Bumpkin #1: "Yep. Bit him, too."

I love it when people get criticized for telling the truth. McCain and Clinton proved that they are talented veteran politicians. They jumped all over someone for telling an inconvenient truth.

To politicians, we are the land of the free, home of the brave and apple pie. Nobody has any reason to be bitter. To suggest otherwise is naive and not POLITICALLY correct.

Posted by: steve boyington | April 12, 2008 7:21 PM

Why is it If poor white folks are angry with the government we are Bitter ?

Posted by: Mary | April 12, 2008 7:12 PM

"Obama Concedes He Misspoke
As his political opponents heap on scorn, Sen. Barack Obama acknowledged that he chose his words poorly when describing small-town Pennsylvanians at a fundraiser on Sunday. But he didn't back off the message he had sought to convey."

This is typical news BS ''

The big Headline is concedes he "mispoke".
But the story inside says "chose his words poorly...didn't back off message"

typical fan the flames and get reader attention to sell papers..when there is little substance in the column...i expect more from the Post..and am bitter

Posted by: Patrick | April 12, 2008 6:28 PM

obama is right when trade are going over sea and we have to struggele to pay our mortage and student loan and etc. do you really think mc cain or hillary will make our life easier. i bet you 100 percent if mccain get elected we will still be in recession and more soilders will die and we will be going into war with iran. if you think bush is worst let see mccain the flip flopper. obama is telling the true and the true hurt. let face it do you really think politican really care about us struggling people. if we can give obama a chance because he is new in washington i believe there can be progress and changes. hillary only care about being the first woman president and mccain care about going into war.

Posted by: shirley stlouis | April 12, 2008 6:22 PM

Obama was not saying that people should not own guns or follow their religion. He was saying that they should not put these important issues before their own economic and social interests. These issues are used by the Republicans and others to exploit people and distract them from the very policies that could lift them up (and let them keep their guns and religion). Why esle do blue collar workers vote Repubican. It makes no logial sense in terms of their economic well-being. The strength of the reaction shows you how desperate the Republicans are to stop this very dangerous (for them) notion being discussed. It is entirely conisistant for a cadidate who says he wants to tackle division to attack it at it's core when he can, to bring up the difficult truths. People in Pennsylvania are very angry and Obama knows it. He wants to direct that anger at the economic policies of Washington which both McCain and the Clintons (109 million dollars in 8 years) represent.

It is quite deranged for these three figures to say that Obama is out of touch. I know he wishes he did not use the word bitter, but I hope he sticks to his point. The man is a leader and he is leading us out. Together. It ain't easy...these people who espouse a politics of division and status quo fear him very very much. Stand up Obama and we'll stand with you. Because we love America.

skinsfan, I know you need to clean your Bible and read your gun rights to the young guns, but I don't understand the part about being too busy being bitter to blog. Most of us bitter folk LOVE to post our great rants. You'll be right at home.

Posted by: newageblues | April 12, 2008 5:02 PM

Both sides of this argument have some merit, because Obama spoke truthfully but inartfully. What he was trying to communicate was that the bitterness often felt in small town America as a consequence of economic policies of this and previous administrations has often been exploited by political opportunists to turn ordinary Americans against each other, by diverting attention from economic unfairness onto other issues, including religious expression, gun control, or immigration. It is a standard "divide and conquer" strategy. What he said, however, came across as an attack on religion, hunting, or other small town social values, something he did not intend. In the short term, his remarks will probably hurt him, but the effect is likely to be brief when the legitimate reasons for bitterness become the topic of political debate.
Fred Moolten

Posted by: Fred Moolten | April 12, 2008 4:46 PM

GOOD FOR HILLARY

Posted by: old white lady | April 12, 2008 4:21 PM

Spin doctors like Singer makes me sick. If he believes that Obama was talking down to the people of Pennsylvania, what the hell does he think his candidate has been doing for the past year to America? She has been feeding us a line of s**t day in and day out, nothing but lies, distortions and deceptions. What difference is there with what she brings over what GW has given us for 7+ yrs? While she was talking out of one side of her mouth, her chief strategist was meeting with Colombian officials on policies she says she opposes (just like she supposedly opposed NAFTA with her husband). And then expected us to believe it was without her knowledge or consent. The people of this country was duped but the last president. Look where it brought us as a country. Don't let it happen to us again.

Posted by: tydicea | April 12, 2008 4:07 PM

Then, There's TOM:

"Mitt Romney understands this one FACT. ENFORCE our Labor Laws requiring W-4's and Worker verification of Eligibility, Pay-rolling, and the Magnet drawing the Illegal Workers is Gone, and soon they will be too! It is an EMPLOYMENT ISSUE! Fine Criminal EMPLOYERS! Yesterday already! :-("

But then who will Mitt get to do his lawn? Remember--he was the one hiring illegals to do his yard work!

Posted by: tom | April 12, 2008 1:30 AM

Ohhh, Poor Deluded TOM.

Parroting that misinformed Libbie Drivel like it was somehow even remotely true...

I guess, in his limited cognizance, Barack Hussein does seem like Something other than a Lying, Smooth Talking, Snake Oil Selling, Racist Opportunist for the World Labor Party to usurp the US Executive Branch! ;~)

TOM; The EMPLOYER of the Laborers doing the Work at Mitt Romney's Mansion were EMPLOYED by the Landscaping Firm owned by a man named "Saenz". The IRS, and ICE have had their opportunity to now deal with Mr. Saenz, a LEGAL Resident, about the FEDERAL Laws THEY can Enforce, that NOT EVEN A GOVERNOR CAN!

The only People allowed to Check Legal verification of a Worker, are FEDERAL Authorities or Federally Authorized Authorities(Trained and duly commissioned), and THEIR EMPLOYER! WHEN said duly Authorized Officials DROP THE FRIGGIN BALL, we are screwed!

Comprende? ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 12, 2008 3:54 PM

LOL! Anon, I could address you directly if you would refer to yourself as something("Hussein Stooge" maybe?)

Mitt Romney is very MUCH still involved. He is on board with the GOP supporting the Chosen Nominee.

I, am doing EVERYTHING in my Power to force recognition of Mitt's Abilities and Benefits, in Hope He will be the VP. HE, is BY FAR the most perfect and Powerful Compliment the Military Strong, but Economics Weak McCain could ever Hope for.

McCain brings Evangelicals, while Himself having put his Daughters through Catholic Schools(Sorry Hagee!), while Mitt brings the Fiscal Conservatives.

M&M's! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 12, 2008 3:21 PM

Just remember, Hillary "Board of Walmart" Clinton went to Yale, and everyone knows that Harvard is more elitist than Yale! Hillary "120 million dollar" Clinton attacking someone for being "elitist" is a little like Hillary attacking someone for their opposition to the war in Iraq. Oh, but she did that, too. Hilarious.

Posted by: jim | April 12, 2008 3:01 PM

I love that the best folks on the right can muster against Obama is that he is a "communist" and cleverly changing his middle name to "Obasama." Are you people in 8th grade?

Don't answer that. We already know the answer. One of you is in the White House right now.

One thing is for sure: you're going to be a pretty bitter group of 8th-graders come November.

Posted by: jim | April 12, 2008 2:56 PM

Hey "RAT-The"
How dumb can you be?
Two points:
#1 Mitt Romney is no longer running, so why do you talk as if he is still in the race?
#2 Mitt Romney made millions of dollars buying company and shipping jobs to OTHER countries, I can't believe this corporate raider would have be president for all of us.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:23 PM

Heres how underhanded the Obama people operate.They made no comment until they found out that someone had a audio of his remarks and only then did they comment.CHANGE

Posted by: roncraw | April 12, 2008 1:05 PM

I'm bitter alright, bitter than there is no way to keep irresponsible individuals from repeated spamming their useless message on the this blog, bitter that some people obviously confuse hate speech with thought through opinions, and bitter that I have to be assaulted by people WHO USE CAPS THINKING THAT THAT WAY THEY CAN SHOUT ALL ABOVE EVERY ONE ELSE

Bitterness a fact of life in America as wage growth has not kept pace with the rise in prices. Fewer and fewer control more of the wealth in this country shutting our millions from the opportunity of living a life better than that of their parents.

Posted by: Nclwtk | April 12, 2008 12:34 PM

Why was this a gaffe? What he said was a honest criticism, NOT of working class Americans, but of the major political parties. Only if you take the last part of the statement and remove from the first do you even get close to something that might turn off some voters. Actually he sounds a bit like Edwards when he says people a fed up and angry.

The truth is Obama's statements are being spun by Clinton and McCain because they show he is more in touch with ordinary peoples lives than they are. It was Bush then Clinton then Bush that handed more and more power to big business. McCain and HRC voted for and supported those policies. Never were policies like deregulation or NAFTA written is a way that benefited Wall ST. and Main St. equally.

So of course people are pissed. And why would working people vote their economic interests? Bill Clinton exploited the feeling or poor, working class and black people and then once in power served Walmart's interests over theirs. So yeah Obama is right people turn to other things, things close to them.

Why is that a gaffe? He didn't make a gaffe, McCain and Clinton are doing spin!

Clinton needs to run her own campaign and stop hurting the other DEM. If she's the best choice show us. Only reason Obama isn't being praised as insightful for this comment is because he is fighting a two front war. And if anyone wonders if he's politically tough enough...he's fighting both McCain and Clinton and holding his own.

This interesting piece ran in, of all places, a newspaper in Aspen, Colorado.

In election 2008, don't forget Angry White Man

There is a great amount of interest in this year's presidential elections, as everybody seems to recognize that our next president has to be a lot better than George Bush. The Democrats are riding high with two groundbreaking candidates -- a woman and an African-American -- while the conservative Republicans are in a quandary about their party's nod to a quasi-liberal maverick, John McCain.

Each candidate is carefully pandering to a smorgasbord of special-interest groups, ranging from gay, lesbian and transgender people to children of illegal immigrants to working mothers to evangelical Christians.

There is one group no one has recognized, and it is the group that will decide the election: the Angry White Man. The Angry White Man comes from all economic backgrounds, from dirt-poor to filthy rich. He represents all geographic areas in America, from urban sophisticate to rural redneck, deep South to mountain West, left Coast to Eastern Seaboard.

His common traits are that he isn't looking for anything from anyone -- just the promise to be able to make his own way on a level playing field. In many cases, he is an independent businessman and employs several people. He pays more than his share of taxes and works hard.

The victimhood syndrome buzzwords -- "disenfranchised," "marginalized" and "voiceless" -- don't resonate with him. "Press 'one' for English" is a curse-word to him. He's used to picking up the tab, whether it's the company Christmas party, three sets of braces, three college educations or a beautiful wedding.

He believes the Constitution is to be interpreted literally, not as a "living document" open to the whims and vagaries of a panel of judges who have never worked an honest day in their lives.

The Angry White Man owns firearms, and he's willing to pick up a gun to defend his home and his country. He is willing to lay down his life to defend the freedom and safety of others, and the thought of killing someone who needs killing really doesn't bother him.

The Angry White Man is not a metrosexual, a homosexual or a victim. Nobody like him drowned in Hurricane Katrina -- he got his people together and got the hell out, then went back in to rescue those too helpless and stupid to help themselves, often as a police officer, a National Guard soldier or a volunteer firefighter.

His last name and religion don't matter. His background might be Italian, English, Polish, German, Slavic, Irish, or Russian, and he might have Cherokee, Mexican, or Puerto Rican mixed in, but he considers himself a white American.

He's a man's man, the kind of guy who likes to play poker, watch football, hunt white-tailed deer, call turkeys, play golf, spend a few bucks at a strip club once in a blue moon, change his own oil and build things. He coaches baseball, soccer and football teams and doesn't ask for a penny. He's the kind of guy who can put an addition on his house with a couple of friends, drill an oil well, weld a new bumper for his truck, design a factory and publish books. He can fill a train with 100,000 tons of coal and get it to the power plant on time so that you keep the lights on and never know what it took to flip that light switch.

Women either love him or hate him, but they know he's a man, not a dishrag. If they're looking for someone to walk all over, they've got the wrong guy. He stands up straight, opens doors for women and says "Yes, sir" and "No, ma'am."

He might be a Republican and he might be a Democrat; he might be a Libertarian or a Green. He knows that his wife is more emotional than rational, and he guides the family in a rational manner.

He's not a racist, but he is annoyed and disappointed when people of certain backgrounds exhibit behavior that typifies the worst stereotypes of their race. He's willing to give everybody a fair chance if they work hard, play by the rules and learn English.

Most important, the Angry White Man is pissed off. When his job site becomes flooded with illegal workers who don't pay taxes and his wages drop like a stone, he gets righteously angry. When his job gets shipped overseas, and he has to speak to some incomprehensible idiot in India for tech support, he simmers. When Al Sharpton comes on TV, leading some rally for reparations for slavery or some such nonsense, he bites his tongue and he remembers. When a child gets charged with carrying a concealed weapon for mistakenly bringing a penknife to school, he takes note of who the local idiots are in education and law enforcement.

He also votes, and the Angry White Man loathes Hillary Clinton. Her voice reminds him of a shovel scraping a rock. He recoils at the mere sight of her on television. Her very image disgusts him, and he cannot fathom why anyone would want her as their leader. It's not that she is a woman. It's that she is who she is. It's the liberal victim groups she panders to, the "poor me" attitude that she represents, her inability to give a straight answer to an honest question, his tax dollars that she wants to give to people who refuse to do anything for themselves.

There are many millions of Angry White Men. Four million Angry White Men are members of the National Rifle Association, and all of them will vote against Hillary Clinton, just as the great majority of them voted for George Bush.

He hopes that she will be the Democratic nominee for president in 2008, and he will make sure that she gets beaten like a drum.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 11:47 AM

You voted Cheney into power because he and Bush told you that they would stop gay marriage and that they will continue to allow us to bear arms. Then they sent more of our children to die and then Cheney said when we expressed concerns:

"So!" "They volunteered".

But thank God Bush and Cheney never said we were bitter! "They are real politicians of the type we must have in Washington"

I despair for a democracy when the electorate don't think.

Posted by: lou | April 12, 2008 11:46 AM

My upstate NY community resembles many in PA. My neighbors are more than bitter - they are scared. We have a huge number of foreclosures, houses for sale that no one is buying, and since we don't have public transportation, gas prices are killing us.

Just got a notice that propane prices went up.

Oh yeah - we have guns - and more than our share of deer hunbters. But they are hunting for sport. It's to put meat on the table.

I hope Senator Obama continues to hammer this home. If McCain and Clinton want to share some of their millions, we'd be happy for a donation.

Posted by: Denise Oliver-Velez | April 12, 2008 11:45 AM

Okay, let me understand this. The NY Times poll says that 81 percent of Americans think the country is headed in the wrong direction and Hillary Clinton responding to Obama's comments says, "As I travel around Pennsylvania, I meet people who are resilient, who are optimistic, who are positive,.." I think Obama's comments are a more realistic assessment. As he has often said, he's telling people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear.

Posted by: Keith Hood | April 12, 2008 11:16 AM

Barack Obama is going to be the first president since Jimmy Carter who really does talk to Americans like they have a right to have an opinion that does not conform to the patriotic, "United We Stand" malarky that has been shoved down our throats for years. He is proud to serve people who are stuck in their own ways as well as us who are very anxious to see great changes happen in this country. When I went to listen to Obama in Phoenix back in February, I realized that his speech and his presence was the first time I had been proud of any political figure since Bill Clinton stood between Yitzak Rabin and Yasser Arafat back in 1993. Now Obama's realistic understanding of what is really going on in small town America just doubles that pride in him and in my country that does have the great ability to CHANGE!
Hilary Clinton's spokesperson said, "Americans are tired of a President who looks down on them -- they want a President who will stand up for them for a change." Well, I hate to tell her this, but Americans voted for George W. Bush because they saw him as someone they could sit down with over a beer and chat. That doesn't sound like a guy who they see as looking down on them. As for her husband, I don't think he did that either. I'm not sure what president she's thinking of, but if she wants a change, she better be voting for Barack Obama too, because he's the only beneficial change that will be on that ballet this November.

Posted by: rowingunl | April 12, 2008 11:15 AM

vnd22,

He was asked a question. He answered truthfully, honestly and fully. I admire that he tells the truth. I guess we have become so accustomed to politicians lying to us that the truth is a shock to our systems AND we actually believe that it is the right thing to do.

We have to believe that politics is a game instead of something that affects everything about our lives and livelihoods that anyone who does not play the game by its rules is somehow bad and must be rejected. Boy are we messed up!

Posted by: lou | April 12, 2008 11:11 AM

Leictman: I'm married with 2 kids my friend and I don't get oral from female interns 6 years younger than my eldest daughter like the former occupant of the White House did, so I don't think I will be going out with Chelsea anytime soon. I believe when I made my marriage vows, they meant something.

Obviously, you were unable to grasp the tenor of my comments. The fact that the saran wrap Clintons could call Senator Obama an elitist while they have gamed the system to their maximum advantage the last 8 years on their elitist credentials is pure rank hypocrisy, something the Clintons excel in. Ok, you're a Clinton apologist and am easily impressed by their transparency. That's your preogative but I'm not falling for their bs.

Posted by: Jeff Owen | April 12, 2008 10:48 AM

"And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

Absolutely. And Karl Rove understood this, giving folks false issues to blame their feelings bitterness, going on to say "liberals" were the cause of it all.

I believe the reason Obama is so popular is that he speaks to his fellow citizens saying what we all know to be true. Clinton/McCain touch upon the sentiment.

The big question is, will Sen. Obama follow through and make the difference (more action, less talk), or will his legacy simply be the "first black president"?

This country has got to be more than an individual's claim to be the "first" of something.

Posted by: Jaxon, Austin, TX | April 12, 2008 10:48 AM

Jeff doesn't like Chelsea. I am sure that she is shattered and will now never go out with you. Bill and Chelsea are capitalists oh my gosh how terrible Jeff.

Posted by: Leichtman | April 12, 2008 10:41 AM

"Is it just me, or are the most bitter comments all from Clinton and McCain supporters"

Actually the most bitter sentiment that I have heard came from the Huffington Post reporter who was actually there and recorded the comments when Sen Obama spoke to his mega contributors. The person that actually heard these sentiments was appalled and embarassed by those comments. I guess the Huffington Post mark is just another shill for HC, right?

Posted by: Leichtman | April 12, 2008 10:35 AM

They're all globalist elitists who support illegal immigrants. Wake up America!

Posted by: bong_jamesbong2001 | April 12, 2008 10:34 AM

What this shows is that people in this country can't handle thought provoking comments from politicians that speak truth to power. Instead, too many people prefer the synthetic, saran warp brand which is what Senator Clinton and her husband excel in.

The audacity of Senator Clinton to say that Senator Obama is out of touch with everyday Americans while President Clinton went on the lecture junket circuit in front of the economic and cultural elites the last 8 years and made over $100 million dollars. On top of that, their lovely daughter works as a hedge fund manager on Wall St. Geez, Chelsea, how did you get that job? Did you e-mail your resume on monster.com and got a response back? I'm sure mommy and daddy had nothing to do with that. How about getting into Stanford? You must be kidding.

Up until now, I said as a lifelong dem, I would support whoever the eventual nominee is but now I can't see myself voting for Senator Clinton if she unlikely prevails in this primary. I'll vote Libertarian if she is the nominee in the general.

Posted by: Jeff Owen | April 12, 2008 10:34 AM

So, Obama's pastor is "bitter" with America. Obama's wife is "bitter" with her life, Obama's dad was "bitter" when he left him at the age of 2, Pennsylvania middle class is bitter and they go after guns and religion and some become "polygamist" as in Texas. WE have a heck of a "BITTER" candidate ready to be President and say God Dam* Amercia, every day. Then everyone will switch from Beer to Kool Aid :-)

Posted by: vs | April 12, 2008 10:30 AM

"Bittergate"? You have got to be kidding me! Tell me that this is just a joke! Of all of the near catastrophic events besetting the American people, you want to discuss this? That Obama used the word "bitter" to describe the mood of the electorate?

Look. You idiots who get all wet over this stuff have too much time on your hands. Jesus Freaking Christ America! Snap out of it! Can't you dumb freaking clucks out there see that this is all desoigned to get you to give George Fracking Bush a third term by election that farty old man McCain who the neocons have pinned their hopes of invading Iran on? Are you mushy headed independents out there going to fall for this crap again!

If you do you deserve every body bag, every collapsed bridge and dam, every nickel the price goes up on gas and every freaking job lost you are going to get if you reward the GOP after this record! If you do so, you do so with my unending contempt!

Posted by: Jaxas | April 12, 2008 10:30 AM

it really doesn't matter what the Obama supporters, or even the HC supporters are saying about the statement. The only thing that will matter will be the porlling response of the 12% of Pa and Indiana undecideds and those identified as soft Obama supporters. If they are decidedly rural voters that will be a disaster for the Obama campaign. Lets see where those polling numbers go next week and don't jump up and down Obama supporters who salivate on Sen Obama's every word, you likely won't be happy with next week's polling.

Posted by: Leichtman | April 12, 2008 10:28 AM

Obama has demonstrated again why he is unelectable.

Posted by: John | April 12, 2008 10:24 AM

Don't look to his voting record to see just how much he cares for the people he just insulted.
Obama has a way of ducking hard votes or explaining away his bad votes by trying to blame poorly-written statutes. Case in point: an amendment he voted on as part of a recent bankruptcy bill before the US Senate would have capped credit card interest rates at 30 percent. Inexplicably, Obama voted against it, although it would have been the beginning of setting these predatory lending rates under federal control. Even Senator Hillary Clinton supported it.

Now Obama explains his vote by saying the amendment was poorly written or set the ceiling too high. His explanation isn't credible as Obama offered no lower number as an alternative, and didn't put forward his own amendment clarifying whatever language he found objectionable.

Why wouldn't Obama have voted to create the first federal ceiling on predatory credit card interest rates, particularly as he calls himself a champion of the poor and middle classes? Perhaps he was signaling to the corporate establishment that they need not fear him. For all of his dynamic rhetoric about lifting up the masses, it seems Obama has little intention of doing anything concrete to reverse the cycle of poverty many struggle to overcome.

Posted by: greenfun | April 12, 2008 10:23 AM

Is it just me, or are the most bitter comments all from Clinton and McCain supporters?

Posted by: Mark Gisleson | April 12, 2008 10:22 AM

Obama is a racist hypocritical "LIAR"...
You people will see if he wins the presidential election . Look at Chicago, he hasnt done a thing there . Remember the old saying you need to clean out your own closet before you go try cleaning out others . That applies to Obama . He thinks he knows it all has all the answers .All he wants is the power .

Posted by: Joan | April 12, 2008 10:18 AM

People, just be honest. I'm from Ohio and I love my country but I am bitter on how this government is trying to diminish the middle class. He just speaks the truth.

Posted by: jc | April 12, 2008 10:17 AM

Well Clinton trolls and flaks, first you said he was a gangster, a drug addict with too many low brow friends. Now he is an elitist and a snob?

Watching you lose your minds is entertaining actually.

What is it like to see double digit leads disappear again and again? Did you know that the Clintons' loss in this campaign is one of record proportions?

This guy who "doesn't get it", Barak Obama has built the largest grassroots fund raising organization in history.
It is still growing and we are not tapped out by any means.

Do you enjoy watching Bill humiliate his wife again and again and again? We miss Mark Penn.

Posted by: shrink2 | April 12, 2008 10:15 AM

you all up there with your critics and what not don't know nothing.....I am angry and fustrated and I got guns and God and I don't even live in PA.....He (Obama) is right so pull your heads out of your collective behinds and look around...how much American blood fell upon the ground in Iraq this last week???? Are you paying attention?????

Posted by: jeremiah juda jackson | April 12, 2008 10:13 AM

Hopfully this will get around to all the news media an they will put it on the news instead of making excuses for everything he says , when he was in the midwest campaigning, why did he not say these things Obama is a liar >Oh by the way Kerry Kennedy Durkin also voted for the war why is he not putting them down maybe because he needs their eddorsement he is like Kennedy tries to lie about the truth

Posted by: maggie | April 12, 2008 10:01 AM

I absolutely think that Barak hit the nail right on the head. Those of us in Pennsylvania know that the culture of central PA is to close schools for the first day of hunting season. The US will never thrive in the 21st century while still having this large pockets of retrogressivity.

Posted by: phillychuck | April 12, 2008 10:00 AM

I am bitter, and I am voting for CHANGE!

Both Bushes & Bill Clinton SCREWED me!

I work three job & have no health insurance!

I am bitter as hell!

It's time for a change!

Posted by: Cheryl | April 12, 2008 9:56 AM

and Henry it is that bitterness that makes you cling to Religion? That sounds pretty insulting to Jim Wallace. Curious why Sen Obama's supporters conveniently leave out the second half of what was said and refuse to acknowledge that the Huffington Post, an Obama supporter site, cringed when she heard Obama saying it at the fundraiser. Perhaps the person who actually heard the comment first hand was also a HC supporter or Republican is that what his supporters believe?

Please stay out of Texas Senator if you are the nominee, you don't share our Texas values. People in Texas are optimistic not bitter as you proclaim b/c we know this morning that it is less likely that you will be our President.

Posted by: Leichtman | April 12, 2008 9:52 AM

OK, enough is enough. This campaign is all about hate,lies and corruption.

If this continues I-along many people- will probably vote McCain.

Thank you guys for opening my eyes.

Posted by: OpenMinded Female | April 12, 2008 9:51 AM

I find Obama see the facts on the ground. I don't find that his analysis is accurate. I was born and raised in eastern PA, and the boroughs and villages (hell, even a lot of Philly [don't really know Pittsburgh]) have been as chararcterized well before the economy tanked. They were just happier to go hunting, go to church, and to talk stuff about people who were different when the economy was better.

Posted by: jokr715 | April 12, 2008 9:41 AM

For the first time in my adult life, this bitter, clingy, typical white person wishes that the Obama's would just go away.

Posted by: JoeCHI | April 12, 2008 9:34 AM

To hell with Billary and John-my-ugly-face-is-full-of-cancer-McCain. Obama was telling the truth. I DARE YOU IDIOTS to show me the lie in his statement. If I lost my pension, lost my job and security, I too would be bitter. What is all this idiotic talk about resilient small town America? Give me a break. Obama is telling it like it is and these fools thought he would back down once they jumped on it. I got news for you punks, he is not backing down, he is taking it to you suckers. Suck on that FOOLS!!!

Posted by: Henry Spencer | April 12, 2008 9:32 AM

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

Posted by: Greg | April 12, 2008 9:30 AM

I agree with him and I think people are bitter and angry, but he better get himself on TV and make this argument, because the Hilliary-ites are doing their best to make him look like an elitite and out of touch with the Pennsylvanians!

Posted by: Peg | April 12, 2008 9:28 AM

Obama doesn't even get how demeaning his comments are to middle America.

He is unelectable.

Posted by: slbk | April 12, 2008 9:26 AM

Obama 's words have been twisted so badly by McCain and Clinton that he comes off as a truth teller and they come off as fools! He's not looking down on the voters HILARY,HE'S STANDING UP FOR THEM!WE'RE ALL BITTER! Actually it's a brilliant by BARACK! The madder we get the worse you BOTH WILL DO!

Posted by: Paully 6 | April 12, 2008 9:19 AM

Obama - again - hits the nail on the head. You're damn right I'm bitter and frustrated and that's exactly why I'm voting for him.

Hillary and McCain just don't get it. That's the problem.

Posted by: Greg | April 12, 2008 9:13 AM

Win or lose, I'm happy to be spoken to as an adult. I'm secure in my position in small-town America. I make $75,000O a year. Of course, I don't want to live like a movie star. I know the bitterness around me--I swim in it every day. God, the struggles we see every day in the US! How divorced from life can Clinton and McCain be?

Bravo, Obama. And, if you wonder about my politics, my great hope is that Obama is a 21st century Eisenhower, the greatest President since World War II.

Posted by: rusty 3 | April 12, 2008 9:02 AM

This is the result of affirmative action. An idiot lawyer given a silver spoon from society, then judges he must be better than everyone else.
He understands white rural america about as well as I understand inner city LA.
He's an idiot, a snob, a liar, and a racist.

Posted by: Chris | April 12, 2008 8:54 AM

It's not the "bitter" comment, it's that according t the bible of Obama if you are white and work for a living you are a gun nut, a religous nut, racist, anti-immigrant.

He's called whites who work trash.

I'm sure he thinks the same about blacks who work , but since they are voting for him, they're ok in his book

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 8:53 AM

Wait just one second here. Blacks supported Clinton when he had his Lewinsky scandal. And now white America is mad at Obama for his truthful "bitter" comment. Man what hypocrites we are saying Dems support equal rights.

Posted by: Retired Rich | April 12, 2008 8:51 AM

I am an elitist and proud of the fact that I am. I do feel that small town America tends to have small minded people. Racism breeds well in small towns. What exciting things are there to do in small towns? People who live in small towns can't think farther then their porch. Where do you find most people in small towns? In bars of course. Alcoholism is rampant in small towns.

Posted by: Retired Rich | April 12, 2008 8:42 AM

God bless Barack Obama!

Posted by: PTL | April 12, 2008 8:40 AM

Love the comments about Obama's "RICH" opponents. Really! I'm sure all those bitter people in Pennsylvania would love to have the Obama's million $+ home in Chicago and the opportunity for their kids to go to Princeton and Harvard. On the other hand, those PA people have ALWAYS been proud of their country, through good and bad unlike Mrs. Obama!

Posted by: RIKaren | April 12, 2008 8:34 AM

Obama is now becoming an embarrassment to the old ine democrats who put him on front street.

What is confusing democrats is that the old line democrats whom they trusted over the years support this phoney.

What democrat voters have to understand is that the democrats supporting Obama, Kennedy, Kerry, Pelosi, et al, are the very same clever Democrats that held the coats of the Republicans when they destroyed what we all had and all wanted.

We need to move on from the old line and corrupt democrats and try to save ourselves and our country.

Posted by: JohnAdams1 | April 12, 2008 8:32 AM

I think, in a way, all the candidates are elitist in comparison to the average citizen, so for McCain and Clinton to use this comment to attack Obama would work just as well for them. I don't know anyone who made nearly as much as any of the candidates personally in the last year, let alone someone who has made $109 million in a few years' time.

And, personally, I do feel slightly bitter when it comes to the current economic situation, and I would be grateful for a change in the political situation. No more Clintons or Bushes, but I am not sure if I'd vote for McCain or Obama at this point.

Pittsburgh, PA.

Posted by: Cee | April 12, 2008 8:24 AM

Hillary Clinton says her economic policies will restore the economic policies of her husband's administration. However both Hillary and her husband failed demonstrate any economic wisdom or foresight as Alan Greenspan warned of irrational exuberance while the sub prime housing loans and dot com investment bubbles were created and pandered during her husband's administration and both supported China's entry into the World Trade Organization without any conditions such as protecting the environment or labor and property rights to levels that are comparable to western standards.

The U.S. government surplus (generated by taxes raised from the housing and investment bubbles) evaporated once the housing and investment bubbles burst.

Furthermore, China today is not only a leading contributor to environmental pollution and global warming (thank you very much Mr. Nobel Laureate, Al Gore), it's also pushing up oil and other commodity prices, taking our jobs and stealing our intellectual property.

Like the Roaring Twenties decade that preceded the Great Depression, the Irrational Nineties that preceded our current decade were both golden ages for technology, scandal-plagued politicians, corporate greed, and unrestrained personal debt and speculation.

As the global economy teeters on the brink of economic meltdown not unlike the Great Depression, America doesn't need finger pointing and fear mongering, America needs a president whose economic policies are based on confidence, unity and reason. America needs Barack Obama.

When political and military judgment mattered most to U.S. military personnel and the American people, John McCain and Hillary Clinton failed as U.S. Senators to demonstrate any commander-in-chief qualities when without competent questioning, they both accepted the faulty intelligence used to justify the Iraq war and misjudged the Bush administration's competencies to lead the war.

Barack Obama on the other hand demonstrated his superior judgment and commander-in-chief qualities when he took an unpopular position and cautioned that without clear rationale an invasion of Iraq would encourage the worst impulses of the Arab world and strengthen Al Qaeda's recruitment.

Now, John McCain advocates maintaining U.S. troops in Iraq indefinitely which does little to incentivize the Iraqi government to deliver the political reforms needed to promote civil unity whereas Barack Obama's threat to withdraw U.S. troops does more to incentivize the Iraqi government to deliver the necessary reforms.

As the threat of global terrorism persists, neither John McCain or Hillary Clinton have demonstrated any understanding of the complexities of building and maintaining global alliances to confront this common enemy. America needs a president with demonstrated commander in chief qualities, leadership and judgment. America needs Barack Obama.

If experience, wisdom and judgment may be relied upon to judge a presidential candidate's abilities to solve problems, then let's look at the records of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

2007 - While Barack Obama promoted a restoration of balance between work and wealth and criticized special interests for distorting U.S. tax codes, Hillary Clinton and her husband liquidated their blind trust of the nearly $50 million amassed during their years in public office.

2002 - While Barack cautioned that without clear rationale an invasion of Iraq would encourage the worst impulses of the Arab world and strengthen the recruitment arm of Al Qaeda, Hillary told Larry King she didn't regret her vote on the Iraq war resolution because like the Bush administration, the Clinton administration viewed Saddam Hussein as a threat to the international community.

1999 - While Barack secured bipartisan support for health-care reform and passage of low-income tax credits and child care subsidies in the Illinois legislature, Hillary supported her husband's Iraq "regime change" policy in order to divert public attention from the president's marital, legal and ethical infidelities.

1989 - While Barack Obama served as the Harvard Law Review's first black president, Hillary Clinton then wife of the Arkansas governor received payments from a law firm that was doing the state's business and received board of director payments from Wal-Mart where she remained silent about Wal-Mart's anti-labor union practices.

1979 - While Barack Obama was actively involved in the South African divestment movement to end apartheid, Hillary reaped profits of almost 10,000% in the futures markets and left taxpayers with her real-estate losses in the Savings & Loan bailout.

The Clintons would have us believe that Hillary and Bill have been thoroughly vetted. If that were true, then why don't we have answers for:

MONEY: Do the Clinton Foundation, Clinton Library, Clinton campaign and Clintons tax records show a proper accounting for the sources and uses of funds?

PARDONS: Will Hillary "reject" contributions or compensation from persons she pardons unlike her husband Bill who accepted contributions from Marc Rich, partner of Viktor Bout (the merchant of death), and her brother Hugh Rodham who accepted compensation from drug lords who were pardoned by Bill?

For too long fear, division and rancor as instruments to maintain power and position in Washington.

Why are the Clintons' traditional adversaries Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity now embracing Hillary Clinton as the Democratic Party's nominee? Because both the Clintons and John McCain are willing sparring partners in the fear mongering arena, whereas Barack Obama's means of governing through confidence, unity and reason threatens the wealth, power and position of these fear mongers.

It's refreshingly nice to see the better angels of America's character prevailing as voters reject the racial, religious and ethnic slurs being spewed by the divisive surrogates of the Clintons, Limbaugh and Hannity.

Voters in Pennsylvania now have an opportunity to change the direction of America's policies, economy and foreign relations for the better by voting for Barack Obama and rejecting the fear mongers.

As a Republican-leaning independent, I will vote for the Democratic nominee if it is Barack Obama but I will not vote for the Party's nominee if Hillary Clinton is on the ticket. America needs Barack Obama.

Posted by: John Patrick Smith | April 12, 2008 8:21 AM

I'm sick with all Obama speeches. It seem he is the Mr.right and eveybody else is wrong.Obama is nothing but a phony person who is so hungry for power. Obama and his wife are too ambitious to take the white house although he has no creditial to lead this country and we as americans are falling into Obama's spell.all of a sudden, Obama is putting his hand over his heart during the singing of national anthem or during pledge of allegiance. Obama was criticized for not being patriotic to USA for not wearing the flag pin also. What Obama will do next wear the USA flag pin? PHONY NOTHING BUT PHONY.Americans people hope you see Obama true intention in this great country. Obama has a tie with Mr. Wright, Mr. farrakhan, Mr. ayers, and others anti- americans. We hope all americans people will not forget the 9/11 that our right has been violated by the people associated with Obama. For sure, we are not voting for Obama even he is the last man standing on this earth.

Posted by: Peter | April 12, 2008 8:17 AM

"Instead of apologizing for offending small town America, Senator Obama chose to repeat and embrace the comments he made earlier this week," said Clinton spokesman Phil Singer.

The Clintons sound SO DESPARATE!

Posted by: TerryKing | April 12, 2008 8:15 AM

Hillary is bitter because what Bill did with Monica and taking it out on the electorate. Bill is bitter that he got caught.

McCain is bitter because he sold his conscience to the conservatives for a fistful of votes.

PA small town voters are now even more bitter that Billary and McCain don't get the fact that they are bitter about losing their jobs, their factories closing and Billary and McCain playing politics with their bitterness.

Posted by: DrRay from Ohio | April 12, 2008 8:15 AM

Obama is simply stating (seeing!) the truth..people are bitter - rich and poor alike:
1) Iraq war is costing lives nad billions. Dems are doing squat to counter Bush.
2) National Debt is climbing at an alarming rate, dollar is falling, we are becoming indebted to the likes of China.
3)We have crisis in healthcare, social security, medicareetc.
4) Corporations are stealing money from people, shipping jobs overseas, while their CEO's are walking away with millions.

People are bitter and for good reason.
What's even more disgusting is that Clinton is so desperate she's trying to turn Obama's remarks into something "evil", as a slight against small town USA. This is something right out of Karl Rove's playbook and another example of why Clinton is detested by so many people. Why she represents politics as usual.

Obama is not condecending. He has displayed extreme dignity against the negative forces of the Clinton's - who feel they are owed the candidacy..we'll guess what, they ain't gonna get it!!!

Posted by: John | April 12, 2008 8:07 AM

"then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations." So this is what Sen. Obama thinks of us poor, little, feeble-minded, small-town hicks, huh? Nice. And this guy is the "Great Uniter" candidate, right? Then he tries to cover it up by saying, "Oh, I meant that small-town people are bitter about losing their jobs." And he thinks we are just so stupid that we will fall for that line. Nevermind that he just generally accused us small town folk of being gun-toting, xenophobic, religious zealots. This guy is such a snob.

Posted by: Cory | April 12, 2008 8:07 AM

Obama hit the nail on the head..the vein of anger, bitterness, many in our nation have and not just blue collar workers in PA...
I have been bitter as H*ll...furious at the policies of our government, furious at the deaf ears of our leaders and for once, a politician stands out in the crowd and sees the elephant in the living room...The hopelessness that the people in this nation have been feeling for years, the voiceless-ness of it all, because nobody is listening...
This is why 80% in this country think the country is on the wrong track...Well I can tell you this..this citizen is mad as h*ll and I can bet you my life, that it Obama keeps drilling this home and hits the vein of pure anger and bitterness of the American people, he will take the White House...People are more than just fed up they are pi**ed...

Posted by: Susan | April 12, 2008 7:54 AM

Again, Hillary Clinton misses the point entirely. The people in certain regions of Pennsylvania, which is called the rust belt not without a reason, have every right to be bitter and they are. And I'd resent hearing the old rolling up their sleeves adage, if I was out of an opportunity for years. Nothing to roll the sleeves up for. Well, there is a reason her campaign is on the rocks.

Obama shows a lack of respect when he says people "cling" to guns and religion. Well, thst is America and the constitution. He is finished and no amount of GE/NBC/MSNBC sponsorship will save him now. I am a Hillary democrat and I called for BOYCOTTING GE products a month ago. Well, it is working. GE's revenue fell last quarter in a long time. KEEP BOYCOTTING GE......

Posted by: vs_sv | April 12, 2008 7:42 AM

WaPo linked to Obama's entire original remarks that are posted on Huffington Post and were released by Obama's campaign. He even talks about how some lunch pail communties show support where other supposed demographics that are reported to be more likely to typically support him react with skepticism - a direct afront to the claims of him being an elitist.

Obama's remarks and his response are right on. The fact that Clinton and McCain don't agree with them or don't get it is more troubling for their campaign.

Posted by: CWatson | April 12, 2008 7:41 AM

Obama shows a lack of respect when he says people "cling" to guns and religion. Well, thst is America and the constitution. He is finished and no amount of GE/NBC/MSNBC sponsorship will save him now. I am a Hillary democrat and I called for BOYCOTTING GE products a month ago. Well, it is working. GE's revenue fell last quarter in a long time. KEEP BOYCOTTING GE......

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 7:40 AM

It's about time the nation was forced to address it's social issues.
Are you bitter your Congressman got caught in a sex scandal with young boys? Get your bible and your gun and do something?
Are you bitter about your Senator's sex scandal, with hookers while wearing diapers? Get your bible and your gun?

Maybe if the corrupt conservatives, were confronted with a bible and a gun, they may not pass funding for that new gated-subdivision, as the schools of the depressed steel towns roofs collapse around the kids.

If anyone thinks that people do not turn to faith & fear in such times, just look at the Bible TV networks. Everyone blamed the gays for 911 & Katrina. They openly promote Republican candidates....and they are tax exempt religions!
Bitter? Angry? Yes most people are, just like they were in 1948, when the Do Nothing Congress, so thoroughly angered the nation the GOP went from controlling both houses of Congress to just 18 Senators and only 88 House members.
1948 got rid of that bitterness and anger.
The neocons then saw their chance. Enter Joe McCarthy, recruitment of Southern Democrats ( ie: racists) into the GOP, and Nixonian loyalty and Reagan pandering which led to the chrony filled mess of Bush Jr.
It's no wonder people are angry and bitter at government.
It's time to call out the bad long-term creeps of neocon faith and 'purge' them from public life.
It will reduce the GOP sex crimes in Congress, if anything.

Yes people are bitter and anger, and Obama simply identified it.
He did not create that anger.
Clinton & McCain are afraid to tell the truth about the nation's failures. It's too scary for those poor emotional wrecks in Allentown?
Fat chance! Allentown is not feeble and easily swayed by faith based wingnuts.
They are angry that steel left America, and they want something, anything to replace it. Steel is how cars are made, so why did the Japanese & German cars maker's new plants, go to the Southern GOP states? They should have all gone to Pennsylvania.

There is good reason to be bitter...and if the media wants to obsess about a word, let it.
Do another 1948, and give the entire GOP a time out.
Maybe this time they will wake up and grow up.

Posted by: goofticket | April 12, 2008 7:40 AM

My how folks do hate hearing the truth. No wonder the country is so F*^&d up.....Senator Obama speaks the truth and the mindless lemmings get their shorts in a bunch. I come from small town PA where many folks hold 3 part time jobs to make ends meet. Let me tell you, those folks are BITTER! Guns, heck yes, religion, absolutely spot on. Bingo, Lottery tickets and quad riding in the streets. That's their life and it stinks. Like he did with his address on race issues in america, Sen Obama told it like it is...you folks just don't want to believe it. Go ahead vote for McBush, complete the destruction of what was once the greatest nation on earth.

Posted by: pj4521 | April 12, 2008 7:26 AM

For a while now, Barack Obama has being trying to express the fact that most Americans are voting against their own economic interests. They should vote democratic because of their personal situation but they vote republican because of guns and gay marriage and religion.

And now McClinton has served him a golden opportunity to put it in a way that has maximum impact. He will follow up on it. He is not defending himself, he is actually starting the narrative that could lead him to a landslide.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 7:18 AM

I am bitter - Obama is right!! That's why I'm voting for Obama and for change and hope.

I'm bitter that work has slowed for so many and that so many jobs have been outsourced. I'm bitter about NAFTA and other trade agreements. I feel that the Clintons and McCain are out of touch. With $4 a gallon gas, which raises the cost of everything for an already underemployed middle class, how can they think we are NOT bitter?

Obama 08!!

Posted by: Indiana Mom | April 12, 2008 7:12 AM

I am bitter and frustrated that folks spew vitriol at such an innocuous and factual statement...

Folks are bitter and frustrated that our politicians would rather insult each other than try to address serious issues like the rampant job loss, high drop out rate and seriously deteriorating economy.

Posted by: Bitter and Frustrated | April 12, 2008 7:09 AM

I've lived in two small towns, both were very vibrant and prosperous mid-sized towns. One town is in Indiana and one in Mississippi. My home town in Indiana lost two factories, one a auto wiring harness factory and the other a television cabinet supplier. The town in Mississippi lost a glove factory and that was its last manufacturing business. And yes, the people I talked to were bitter and saw that the jobs were gone and not coming back unless something more radical was done.

Neither Senator Clinton or Senator McCain understand this. Barack Obama understands and more importantly wants to turn the country around with tax cuts for the middle class and bring manufacturing and green technology to the smaller towns.

Go Barack,

Robert Koontz
Major, USMCR (Retired)

Posted by: Robert P. Koontz | April 12, 2008 7:01 AM

What is black and white and red meat for the republicans?

answer: Barak Obama

Posted by: JohnAdams1 | April 12, 2008 6:49 AM

senator obama is absolutely correct in his assessment of small towns and the mid-west in particuliar,they have seen their jobs sourced out to other countries,these people have spent 25-40 years in manufacturing jobs and many have no other skills.many blame others and look for other avenues to console themselves.hillary and others are trying to paint obama as an elitist thereby creating a resentment towards obama which would be a backlash in the primary polls.

Posted by: ron | April 12, 2008 6:49 AM

Anti-immigrant? No, but I AM ANTI-ILLEGAL, because illegals cost the taxpayers money and they take the jobs that Obama says are taken away by NAFTA. Obama EMBRACES illegals and these are the same people that are TAKING American jobs and costing taxpayers money. Open your eyes people!

I was born and raised in small town America in Ohio and have been here for well over 25 years. I don't know a single soul who hasn't moved on and made an attempt to better their life after losing a job. Most have found other jobs or went back to school and found new careers.

Obama is an ignorant fool when he says people are "bitter and angry" and not moving on. I am a product of the steel producing rust belt, but I have not experienced or seen what Obama claims.

Posted by: CR | April 12, 2008 6:45 AM

hillary and bill left Arkansas in a hurry has not been back to live they only care about power, and bill care about snoreing cocaine ,if you look at him you can see it .bill and hillary never did anythg for my town in Ark ,it is name Helena ask bill about it he still have some so call friends he did wrong here, we are suffering we do not have but two grocersy stores here e have to sleep with our guns so the gang bang do not break in our home and take what little we do have. there are no jobs here people has to go 60 miles one way to work at the casino in tuncia miss. the ds only see drug dealer selling drugs so they think this the way of life it is sad here so for hillary to say that people are not bitter she much be living on cloud nine. i am bitter and try of living in fear each day and worry if all m bill are going to be paid. i do not make $109.million dollars a year i only make 32,000 a year so thank you Barack for speaking out for us sml town people i reach back for my religion because sometime that is all you can .do and pray that the lord protect barack from his emmeny, he said i will make them your foot stool. and no weapson can form againt you,and do not worry about eve does because he said that vengent is his .so let them keep up the good work because god will put a stop to it when he is ready.

Posted by: hattie | April 12, 2008 5:49 AM

Obama got it right. I live in a little town in the rust belt and that's just how we feel. Listen to him in his own words. If you live in an area where the jobs have gone to China and the houses stand empty from foreclosures, you might feel that he "gets it". We sure did. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyDow

Posted by: karela | April 12, 2008 5:40 AM

With deep disappointment, I listened to the mortifying words Senator Obama uttered about people he purports to represent. To be a strong nation, a united nation, we must obliterate the notion that some are, by birth or by destiny, superior to others.

In a free country, every citizen, no matter how humble his or her beginnings, can aspire to anything the mind can imagine. To cast the values, circumstances, or lifestyles of others as unworthy, because they differ from one's own, represents the height of arrogance.

I do not want a president who speaks down to me from on high. I do not want a president who believes in coercing me to accept his "vision" of a country where elitism is valued more than humanity. I do not want a president who mocks the simple pleasures of life.

Senator Obama unites by polarizing, oblivious to the fact that unity comes from mutuality. To be one Nation, we must all be equal.

For these reasons, I stand beside future President Hillary Clinton. Our relation to one another is not superior to subordinate, but one of camaraderie. She, and all Americans, will fight side-by-side, in a battle for a better future for America. That day cannot come soon enough.

Posted by: Andrew G | April 12, 2008 5:34 AM

Up until two weeks ago i would have laughed in your face if you told me Obama could even come close in PA.

Today i can tell you that the Man just might take this State. We admire honest people , and today he showed this State that he is not afraid to speak the truth.

Damn straight we are bitter , and Obama seems to be the only one smart enough to understand why.

The way he stood his ground will go a long ways to winning hearts and minds in PA.

Most people i know think Obama is brilliant.

Posted by: Jim , Scranton PA | April 12, 2008 5:10 AM

I thought his comments were poignant and truthful. I am glad that WaPo wrote this article because it does what the media is supposed to do, give us all sides of the story in an unbiased manner.

It is interesting that politician have primarily used third rail topics to divide the voting populous. Why is it that many Americans vote primarily on divisive topics like gun rights, abortion laws, gay marriages or immigration when rarely policy ever changes from election to election?

His comments are not a negative statement of small town people as they are a comment about the large growing disenfranchisement of the American people to a republic they rarely have a voice in.

You can choose to batter this issue as somehow elitist or un-American. But it is a comment that resonates to me and helps outline what is really wrong with our political system.

Its not just about the ear-marks, pork barrel bills, lobbying, hypocrisy or general corruption. It's that the average American has little to no voice in a very noisy political system. So yeah, I vote for the things that I feel are closest to my core beliefs because voting for anything else doesn't seem to matter.

That's why I am voting for Obama.

Posted by: James | April 12, 2008 5:06 AM

Obama telling small town America that their economic despair and ignorance leads them to aboriginal pursuits like hunting is probably not a great way to "get down with the people". His clueless-ness is actually kind of funny. He thinks he knows us because his handlers put him in a bowling alley for a photo-op where he can look and feel like the dumb-@ss hicks of Pennsylvania and Ohio. What is he going to do next to prove he's "one of us"-marry his sister?

Obama spoke the truth. MCBUSH and Clinton are the ones out of touch.The straight talk express MCBUSH is anything but that. Clinton is grasping for straws.

Posted by: Johnny K | April 12, 2008 4:49 AM

You might be an elitist if:

You cut a deal on your mansion with an indicted friend.

You can't remember receiving 250K from your indicted friend.

Your corporate counsel spouse thinks she is down with the little folks because she once shopped at Target.

You think people "cling" to guns because they are "bitter" and you, yourself have never owned or fired a gun.

You think people "cling" to their religion because they are "bitter" when you, yourself are fond of the most "bitter" and bile-filled religious teaching.

You think people "cling" to "antipathy for people who are not like them" when you don't actually know these people and your own knowledge of immigrants is limited to the people who cut the grass at your mansion.

Posted by: ophelia3 | April 12, 2008 4:21 AM

Are you angry mr.Obama that you lost in most of small towns in America.
How do you feel that Americans who feed and protect this country in the wars abroad don't trust you..?
Mr. Obama do you care about small town Americans.??

I am bitter and I am voting for change. I lost my job because it was sent to Singapore and I have a Master's degree. My daughter graduated magna cum laude and she can't even get an interview. She is bitter too.

Go Barack!!!! How many lies must a liar tell before she is called a liar?

Posted by: cheeryjuan | April 12, 2008 4:12 AM

The people in this country are very angry and bitter , and rightly so. We have had leaders for decades that look us in the eye , and lie tous with a smile on there face.
Obama tells us the truth , and for many that seems to be hard to swallow , because they don't know what the truth looks like.

Get ready for President Barack Obama folks. This level of Honesty speaks to the majority of this Nation.

Posted by: The People | April 12, 2008 4:05 AM

Having been born into a relatively poor family myself, I see no merit in having a President who shares my background. Nor need my President look like me, nor share my religion. But at least I would like one who, having achieved adulthood, landed on the same planet. Obama lives in ultra-liberal la la land, and the real problem with him is that, like all uber-liberals, he is convinced he knows us. He is, paradoxically, like the great white hunter who THINKS he knows us because he visited our land and traded beads for our elephant tusks.

jeez, this guy is good. the crowd is going wild at the end. I think this will be his next television ad, and hopefully debate question. He takes the ball, and runs with it. The Obama campaign.....just amazing!

Posted by: kevin | April 12, 2008 3:52 AM

phillychick - dont be bitter, see above!

Posted by: Simbad | April 12, 2008 3:10 AM

phillychick - dont be bitter, see above!

Posted by: Simbad | April 12, 2008 3:10 AM

Who is elitist and out of touch?

Hillary Clinton has lived in mansions (tax payer funded or otherwise) for the last 28 years. She and her husband earned 109 MILLION dollars in less than 7 years. The "hob knob" with kings/queens, sheiks, prime ministers, billionaires, celebrities, etc. and travel the globe on private jets while isolated from the public!!!

Jon McCain has been married for decades to an heiress worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and has lived in private mansions and exclusive addresses.

Obama...he and his wife only recently paid off their student loans. Before law school he worked for 3 years organizing community efforts on the streets of Chicago for...$10,000 a year. After graduating from Harvard, he worked for a small reputable Chicago law firm, not a big white shoe NY firm. He served first for many years in state politics, and then moved on to the Senate. Hardly elitist, I would say.

Which of these three do you think has really been the most "out of touch" with the average person for the last 20 or 30 years?

Posted by: JonathanR | April 12, 2008 3:07 AM

Up until two weeks ago i would have laughed in your face if you told me Obama could even come close in PA.

Today i can tell you that the Man just might take this State. We admire honest people , and today he showed this State that he is not afraid to speak the truth.

Damn straight we are bitter , and Obama seems to be the only one smart enough to understand why.

The way he stood his ground will go a long ways to winning hearts and minds in PA.

Posted by: Jim , Scranton PA | April 12, 2008 3:07 AM

i'm from pennsylvania.

i am bitter.

i am angry.

i am pissed!

i am voting for BARACK OBAMA!!!

Posted by: phillychick | April 12, 2008 2:57 AM

Jean you and your family need to sign up! i think you would be best served if you go to:

Unfortunately he didn't explain his comment linking peoples bitterness with holding on to things like guns and religion...It was a weird comment and he should not have said anything like it. Just like earlier, referring to China, he implied he wouldn't and couldn't stand up against their injustice because we owe China too much money...something about, you wouldn't criticize your banker. Well right is right, and it sounds like big money sways his opinions and judgment.

Posted by: thinktank | April 12, 2008 2:56 AM

People are voting on issues like guns, are they going to have the right to bear arms. They vote on issues like gay marriage.

right on mr Obama

this is talking straight to people McCain and Hillary are hypocrites and they show it

Posted by: jorgito | April 12, 2008 2:55 AM

Bravo, Mr. Obama -- telling it how it is!

Hillary's a millionaire, and so is McCain.

- American from Fort Smith, Arkansas

Posted by: impressed | April 12, 2008 2:54 AM

My fellow elitist Americans understand me completely! As for all you "Whitey's, Rednecks and Crackers" in Pennsylvania and rural America, I meant what I said! I am sick and tired of all you Whitey's hiding behind the constitution (freedom of religion, right to bear arms, etc.) and the bill of rights! My views (and Michelle's) are not radical, they are a blend of Marxism and Socialism, we like to call it OBAMARXSOLISM.

Do not fear CHANGE!!! I am change that I can believe in!!!

All you crackers complain too much! I do not see a problem with not pledging allegiance to the flag! Mentor Wright and my Whitey friend Bill Ayers told me that it is a fascist symbol of oppression as is everything else American. On inauguration day I will put my hand on the Koran and begin the destruction of this American illusion of greatness once and for all.

I am sick and tired of you bible-thumping-gun-toting-crackers complaining about illegal immigration! All you crackers can move to Canada because I will open the southern border and there will be no more illegal's - problem solved!

One of my daughters was working on a school project the other day and asked me about the sacrifices you crackers made during the Civil War - more than 620,000 dead, countless wounded - more than all American wars - to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. I correctly informed her that this was "cracker propaganda", the same propaganda made about WWII where 6 million Zionists were exterminated - completely false! We all know they invaded Palestine and eat Arab children! These are all "Whitey's history lies" and I will eliminate these perverse beliefs when I am president!!! That was the last straw, the girls are going to a Madrassa or be home schooled by Michelle!!!

So, in closing, my dear zombie Whitey followers, I want you to continue to not believe your lying eyes, ears and conscience and continue to give me your blind support and remember that I am the gatekeeper of all truth!!! There are many truths about my past being circulated, your dedicated voracity to exterminate each and every one of them is your duty!

May Allah reward your efforts!!!
Salam Alaykum!!!

Your Beloved Fascist Leader,
Barack Husein "Osama" Obama

Posted by: Mr Osama Bama | April 12, 2008 2:52 AM

Senator McCain voted against the Civil Rights Act, which affects all Americans, and the MLK Holiday. In addition, he has skipped voting on senate bills at least 304 times. He has no clue about economic matters per him. He is against helping out home owners who are about to lose their homes, but his spouse owns eight of them. McCain was not against the government bailing out him and his friends in the Keating Five Scandal, which cost taxpayers millions of dollars. Isn't this hypocrisy? Also, he is doing okay as his spouse is estimated to be worth well over $100 and has afforded him a lavish lifestyle. Who then is out of touch and insensitive to the needs of American citizens? Further, Senator Clinton not only voted to authorize the Iraq War, she voted for the Kyl-Lieberman Act to authorize military action against Iran last summer. She also voted to authorize the use of cluster bombs, which can cause "collateral" damage. She voted to tighten restrictions upon filing for bankruptcy, which has affected many middle-class Americans. Also, where is the donor list for the Clinton Library and Clinton Foundation? What exactly did President Bill Clinton say or do to receive $15 million dollars from Ron Burkle? If speeches don't put food on the table or gas in the car tank as Hillary suggested, President Clinton should return the $51 million dollars he received from giving speeches or give this money to Americans who are losing their homes. It is time for American citizens to get real about what is going on in their country and to reclaim it for themselves and their children. Obama is speaking to Americans like the smart and thinking persons they are, and he is also speaking truth to power. Therefore the powerful are afraid and are working overtime to portray him as a hater of American ideals and principals, which is exactly the opposite of who he appears to be. Wow...the Clintons are working with the Republicans to destroy him and the Democratic Party in the process. Unbelievable! I have lost all respect for the both of them. Yes, Americans, we can reclaim the American Dream through our voices and votes. Pres. Bill Clinton previously said to vote for the one who makes you hope and think. Let's do that and vote for Barack Obama for president in 2008.

Posted by: Jean | April 12, 2008 2:50 AM

There are 7 people in my family that will proudly cast our votes for Obama. The moment for me was when my 73 year old Republican sister came over to my house.I asked her if she had been paying attention to the primaries. Tear started streaming down her face and she said; for the second time in my life i am voting Democrat , i will proudly cast my vote for Barack Obama.

The man is HONEST ,and has the ability to be the best or one of the very best leaders this country has ever had.

YEP people are Bitter in this country , Obama is the change we have been waiting for.

Posted by: 7 Obama Votes | April 12, 2008 2:50 AM

Because women will not date me = Bitter

Because small town PA will not vote for Obama = Bitter

I am a city slicker and lived in State College. People like there guns because they like to hunt. That is true in Agr. areas too.

They were alway quite Christean.

They have never been big on immigration see 1982 immigration act.

Many are happy.

Obama is a F elitist Lawyer. If I went to law school I might not know shte either.

Cultist now is not the time to make yourselves fools. Black people are not like rev. wright - Small towns are not all the same just like city neighborhoods.

Obama is a typical white Hyde Park elitist.

My whole family is to some extent so I know of what I speak.

Posted by: mul | April 12, 2008 2:47 AM

Forget the polls! Osama, errr, Obama bowled a 37 - i think this will be his eventual percentage of votes in PA - much less in November. Wake up Dems, this idiot is worse than Dukakis!

The man is right on the money ( spot on ) , he is the only one that has the guts to speak the truth , and thats why people try to attack him so much............they don't know what the truth looks like. This country is long over due for a great leader like Obama.

Posted by: PA 4 OBAMA | April 12, 2008 2:40 AM

!!!!!!!BREAKING NEWS!!!!!!!JOHN MCCAIN SELECTS HILLARY CLINTON AS HIS RUNNING MATE AND SHE ACCEPTS!!!!!!!BILL CLINTON SEES THIS AS AN OPPRTUNITY TO GET BACK IN THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!WHEN ASKED ABOUT IT, BILL RESPONDS BY SAYING "MONICA, I MEAN HILLARY. THIS IS OUR BEST OPPORTUNITY TO KNOCK OLE JOHN OFF AND TURN THIS PLACE BACK INTO THE POLYGAMOUS COMPOUND IT USED TO BE. CALL UP KATHLEEN AND JENNIFER. LET'S HAVE A PARTY".

I am developing a think-tank for the Obamasama supporters. For more information go to www.Lemmings4Obama.com

Posted by: Simbad | April 12, 2008 2:26 AM

Look at the recently published tax returns... Hillary and Clinton have made literally millions and millions of dollars, stayed close to a small group of lobbyists and corporate cronies. Obama, on the other hand, had years of moderate income while he worked to champion the very values he has promoted during this campaign.

Obama gets it.

Obama understands what's at stake.

Obama knows from first hand experience what's it like.

Thank God for Obama. We have hope for change.

www.cafepress.com/wetnoodle

Posted by: radiocboy | April 12, 2008 2:24 AM

Greed and corruption have ruined every great empire. What makes our any different? Bush betrayed me. I voted for him twice, so shame on me. McCain will continue this trend and his lack of knowledge about economics leaves him just as susceptible to misguided, lobby-driven policy making as Bush and his Exxon-Mobil brothers and Saudi kinfolk. Everyone knows what Clinton Phase I did for American jobs in the long-run bcz we're living with that reality now. We don't know if Obama is anyone other than the guy he portrays and many hope him to be. But given the alternatives, I'll take my chances with him. We do, as Americans, need to take a hard look in the mirror and change some attitudes about the world we live in and our fellow Americans, and acknowledge that every American (even recent immigrants) all matter just as much as any other. White, gun-toating, small town, bible thumpers (I was raised as one too) aren't the major voice nor the only right voice in America. This article's blog has revealed to me so much presumptive bias in our people and an inability to recognize other points of view as valuable and equal. I joined the Navy at a young age and have lived in large cities, rural towns, the Middle East, and now Europe. I can tell you that we are very unaware, as Americans, of our own countrymen, and culturally dumb and insensitive about the rest of the world. Obama represents an opportunity to bring about a discussion and self-awareness that every American needs to take the time and participate in. If not for ourselves, for ensuring America's strength and moral beacon remain true.

Posted by: Obama Republican | April 12, 2008 2:21 AM

i find it hilarious how angry some people are that their plan of taking his words out of context backfired...

like the wright issue, Obama took lemons and made lemonade. You saw those people rise to their feet. seeing the line from Hillary after that mention made them look all the more out of touch...

McCain married into wealth leaving behind his crippled wife, and Hillary, well thats obvious... and Obama, the community organizer who grew up poor, is the elitist?

how the hell did they think that would play?

they are the ones out of touch...

Posted by: Gion | April 12, 2008 2:13 AM

Senator Clinton campaigned for her New York Senate seat on a promise to bring 200000 jobs to Western NY. WNY is an area similar to PA and OH.

Six years after the promise she brought them a net LOSS of 30000.

This is what she promises PA.

Posted by: phildouglas | April 12, 2008 1:51 AM

____________________________

And if you believe that Obama is going to do all the things he has "promised" he would, you and the rest of the "followers" have got to be either to stupid to understand that it will not happen or just don't listen to what he is shoveling.

Posted by: Frankie58 | April 12, 2008 2:12 AM

I am bitter, and I am voting for CHANGE!!! Obama 08!!!!

Posted by: Obama is RIGHT ON! | April 12, 2008 2:10 AM

Both John McCain and Hillary Clinton are of touch with America. If they were in touch, neither one would have voted for the authorization of the Iraq War. We have lost many thousands of our treasury of young men and women because they didn't excercise good judgment by failing to read critical intelligence reports, and understanding who would be affected most by the war: the poorest of neighborhoods treasure. Let's not forget when no WMD was found, it was rationalized by saying Saddam and his thugs would stop raping women and killing its people. Unfortuantely, this war has caused even more innonence Iraqi people to be killed.

We need a president who will speak truthfully, not pandering to every constituent when trying to get votes and making false promises and beliefs. Hillary and John McCain have done nothing to uplift the blight of small town America since being in office. Hillary promised NY up to 250K new jobs. And John McCain promised...Oh yea, NO PROMISE BUT let's wait and see! Where's the beef? Yet, they're attacking Sen. Obama instead of focusing on the issues each American in small town faces each day: foreclosures, lack of good paying jobs and poor public schools, etc...

Go Obama '08.

Posted by: speakkup | April 12, 2008 2:08 AM

HILLARY'S POOR JUDGMENT leaves AMERICANS FOOTING THE BILL...

THE WAR IN IRAQ IS HAVING SERIOUS NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON OUR ECONOMY and those who voted for the war (i.e. hillary) should be to blame, in part, for the state of the US economy.

Look how the WAR IN IRAQ is affecting the US economy...

$3,000,000,000... 3 billion dollars PER WEEK!

That is the amount America is paying for the Iraq War PER WEEK, money that should have been used here, at home.

Add to this:

Interest. We are financing the war with borrowed money (e.g. treasuries) that carries interest; so in actuality, the war is costing the United States MORE THAN 3 billion dollars PER WEEK.

Higher oil and energy prices. Instability in Iraq is adding roughly 30 dollars per barrel as a premium.

High utility bills. High oil prices mean high utility bills. Higher oil prices shifts demand to other sources of energy - gas, coal, etc. - and greater demand will raise the equilibrium price of all sources of energy -- Can you say high energy bills?

Higher oil prices (a raw material used in the production of many goods, fertilizers, gasoline, diesel, plastics, etc.) mean higher prices of goods and services -- Can you say INFLATION?

Higher oil prices mean a higher trade deficit because most of our oil comes from foreign sources. A higher trade deficit means more money is leaving the country than is coming into the country -- Can you say Goodbye to your hard-earned money!

Our dollar is weak and getting weaker. Since we have a trade deficit and is growing in large part to the rising cost of imported oil, the value of goods and services we import exceeds the value of goods we export. You know that foreign car you're thinking of buying or the computer you're using, or that trip abroad you've been thinking of taking....well, guess what? It is going to cost more, Ceteris Peribus, because the dollar is weak and getting weaker.

Lastly, how do you think the world views our country since the argument was made for war? The evidence was weak and circumstantial, yet we rushed into war with Iraq thanks to hillary's authorization.

Hillary Voted FOR THE WAR

Posted by: Joyce Presley | April 12, 2008 2:05 AM

My fellow elitist Americans understand me completely! For all you "Whitey's, Rednecks and Crackers" in Pennsylvania and rural America, I meant what I said! I am sick and tired of all you Whitey's hiding behind the constitution (freedom of religion, right to bear arms, etc.) and the bill of rights! My views (and Michelle's) are not radical, they are a blend of Marxism and Socialism, we like to call it OBAMARXSOLISM. Do not fear CHANGE!!! I is change I can believe in!!!

All you crackers complain too much! I do not see a problem with not pledging allegiance to the flag! Mentor Wright and my Whitey friend Bill Ayers told me that it is a fascist symbol of oppression as is everything else American. On inauguration day I will put my hand on the Koran and begin the destruction of this American illusion of greatness once and for all.

I am sick and tired of you bible-thumping-gun-toting-crackers complaining about illegal immigration! All you crackers can move to Canada because I will open the southern border and there will be no more illegal's - problem solved!

One of my daughters was working on a school project the other day and asked me about the sacrifices you crackers made during the Civil War - more than 620,000 dead, countless wounded - more than all American wars - to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. I correctly informed her that this was "cracker propaganda", the same propaganda made about WWII where 6 million Zionists were exterminated - completely false, these are " Whitey's history lies" and I will eliminate these perverse beliefs when I am president!!! That was the last straw, the girls are going to a Madrassa or be home schooled by Michelle!!!

So, in closing, my dear zombie Whitey followers, I want you to continue to not believe your lying eyes, ears and conscience and continue to give me your blind support and remember that I am the gatekeeper of all truth!!! May Allah reward your efforts!!!

Salam Alaykum!!!

Your Fascist Leader,
Barack Husein "Osama" Obama

Posted by: Mr Osama Bama | April 12, 2008 2:01 AM

THEY ARE 6 PEOPLE IN MY FAMILY ,WE ALL ARE
INDEPENDENT AND WE ALL ARE VOTTING FOR OBAMA!!I VOTED FOR BUSH (FIRST TERM)SORRY!
OBAMA IS THE ONLY HONEST CANDIDATE .

Posted by: ANN | April 12, 2008 2:00 AM

How can anyone trust Hillary and Bill Clinton? Especially when both of them lie so much. They will tell you anything to get back in office. What are her true positions on issues? How does any of us know when she and her husband can't agree on what they want to tell us and what they want us to believe. Hillary is such a liar but she is not good at it. Maybe they should both get their stories straight before they leave the house, if they are really still together. Then again, maybe Bill is doing everything he can to get back in the house.

Posted by: Joe | April 12, 2008 1:57 AM

Obama scares you? Gorge Bush does not? Bill & Hillary Clinton does not? McCain does not? Actually they all have proven to be scary! Why do you want an apologist to be your president?

Posted by: DanielD | April 12, 2008 1:55 AM

I'M BITTER.

Bill WON'T LET ME GIVE HIM bl0wj0bs ANYMORE

( POOR MONICA THE WHITE HOUSE INTERN )

Posted by: MONICA | April 12, 2008 1:54 AM

BARACK OBAMA 08. GREAT RESPOSE WAY TO GO.
FIRED UP READY TO GO!!!
YES WE CAN

Posted by: KYLE | April 12, 2008 1:52 AM

Senator Clinton campaigned for her New York Senate seat on a promise to bring 200000 jobs to Western NY. WNY is an area similar to PA and OH.

Six years after the promise she brought them a net LOSS of 30000.

This is what she promises PA.

Posted by: phildouglas | April 12, 2008 1:51 AM

I THINK THAT OBAMA HAS PROVEN THAT HE IS A SMOOTH TALKING, SLIPPERY POLITICIAN WHO CAN WIGGLE HIS WAY OUT OF ANY BOTCHED COMMENT WITH HIS FANATIC FOLLOWERS WHO THINK THAT HE IS GREATEST THING SINCE SLICED BREAD! I THINK THAT OBAMA CAN USE THESE TACTICS TO FOOL THE GULLIBLE PEOPLE OF AMERICA WHO THINK THAT HE HAS COME TO SAVE US ALL BUT IF HE BECOMES PRESIDENT OF UNITED STATES HE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO JUST EXPLAIN ALL OF HIS UNREHEARSED WRONG COMMENTS AWAY. COMBINE THIS WITH THE REVEREND WRIGHT COMMENTS, MICHELLE OBAMA COMMENTS AND THE REZKO PROBLEM AND I SAY THAT IF THE DEMOCRATS THINK THAT THEY WILL SOMEHOW WIN THE ELECTION WITH THIS UNELECTABLE CANDIDATE THEN THEY DESERVE TO LOSE. ALSO I AM A DEMOCRAT BUT IF OBAMA IS OUR CANDIDATE I WILL SWITCH MY PARTY AFFILIATION TO INDEPENDENT!

Posted by: JENNIFER | April 12, 2008 1:51 AM

What is there NOT to be bitter about? Just listen to these people's stories. They are heartbreaking.

Obama scares me. He never apologizes for anything that he says because his attitude seems to be that he is always right.

His strategy is - don't apologize. Attack! If you think that I said something wrong, then I'm going to come back and stick those remarks in your face. I'm going to repeat them and make you eat them. I will not apologize because there is nothing to apologize for. I'm right and you are wrong.

Witness his latest comments regarding the bitterness of people in small town PA. Hey, man, I'm not demeaning them. I'm just saying things like I see them. What do I have to apologize for?

The same with his pastor of 20 years, Wright. I don't agree with, or even know about those awful things he said, but he's still my pastor. What do I have to apologize for?

But if Bill or Hillary or anyone else saids anything that is not 100% PC or RC (racially correct) and has even a tinge of racism, then they must apologize (and have many times) because they demeaned me or black people, or whoever. Hence the Obama response and attacks regarding Bill's "fairy tale" remark and Hillary's MLK-Johnson remark.

Obama is thin-skinned when it comes to others criticizing him, but pig-headed and stubborn when it comes to issuing an apology to others.

Posted by: David 2007 | April 12, 2008 1:49 AM

Some people in this country just cannot handle the truth! If you like liars like Clinton and Bush, vote for them and you deserve: impeachment, war, national debt. 28% people do not think this country is in the right track. The consumer sentiment is 28 out of 100, all time low. Bush's approval rating is 28%, all time low. Oil price is all time high. Food price is all time high. Foreclosure is all time high. Clintons made more than 100 millions. Executives made millions even though companies and investors are losing billions. No secure in healthcare. So people are not bitter and angry? Do those truth hurt?

- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN
( YOU MADE AMISTAKE WE ALL KNOW YOU MENT BILL)

Posted by: Monica | April 12, 2008 1:43 AM

CASEY

DID YOU STEAL MY OBAMA FROM ME? BECAUSE I AM REALLY FRUSTRATED.... SEXUALLY.

- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:39 AM

We are bitter , We are mad , clinton's made $109 mil and they are in touch with people like us? give me a break. We want change. period.

Posted by: Sam | April 12, 2008 1:38 AM

To Hillary, it's all about Hillary. McCain thinks he's overdue his turn to be Pres for all his years towing the line for a party he doesn't even agree with. He could have easily been an Admiral or SECDEF, but took the clout of the Senator when the job came up. I can't blame him. Wouldn't mind the job myself. But Obama is an activist and has proven he cares about everyone and can at least understand all our views. I think Hillary started off as an activist, but got bitter herself and became corrupt as a result. Wal-Mart, free trade, high-tech outsourcing, H2B Visas (ie, the Chinese economy) and NAFTA are all Bill's legacy and contribution to lost American jobs. If she can take credit for combat action in the Balkans, she can acknowledge her part in this as well. Hillary, you are shameless.

Posted by: Obama Republican | April 12, 2008 1:36 AM

Wonder who does Mitt's hair. Checked his green card?

Posted by: tom | April 12, 2008 1:33 AM

Senator Obama should be sorry for what? For telling the truth? Hillary, stop shedding crocodile tears!

Can she deny that the Pennsylvania folks are not bitter about their plight which they have been enduring for many years? Of course they are angry and bitter at politicians like the Clintons who makes promises to bring sunshine in their lives and, once the election is over, have their promises blown with the wind!

True, people of Pennsylvania are looking forward to a president who will stand up for them. But certainly, that person is NOT Hillary Clinton. How can she who stands up for the very people who have brought about the misery the Pennsyvanians are in now? How can Millionaire Hillary who pockets money from vested interest groups and whose husband peddles his influence to earn millions from foreign governments and companies stand up for the struggling middle-class blue-collar Americans?

Clinton spokesman Phil Singer accuses Senator Obama looking down on middle-class Americans. What a spin! True, the Americans who live in small towns are optimistic, hardworking and resilient. They deserve a president who will respect them. And that President will be Barak Obama.

Posted by: John Santiago | April 12, 2008 1:33 AM

This blog is mostly boring - filled with C and O partisans trying to influence the 10% of uncommitted Dems.

But, WOW!

I can't believe Obama attacked small town Americans!

He's a silver-tongued, rich lawyer with a fancy schmancy Harvard education. Not to mention he's living in a $2 million mansion acquired under shady circumstances.

As others have mentioned, Obama thinks that blue collar Americans of all races who believe in God,love hunting, and support the right to bear arms do so, not because they are intelligent enough to think for themselves, have core values, and believe in long-standing family traditions, no, no, no - Obama has such disdain for real, blue collar, salt of the earth Americans that he believes that common folk are so ignorant that tough economic times have led these ignoramuses to take up God and guns.

Why does Obama look down on real working people with rock solid beliefs?

Why do Obama's words more and more ring so hollow?

Maybe, it's because Obama is the bitter one - bitter because his core is empty and he has not labored to fill it on his own. He knows not his father's family and has disavowed his mother's. In response, he has contempt for well-rooted small town and middle Americans.

I pity you, Obama.

Posted by: Middle of the Road | April 12, 2008 1:32 AM

oh the neocons are throwing a fit...all caps, all the !!!!, all the slurs....and the American people are not listening. Must be frustrating to them to see that Obama has won. They got their Iraq war, and now, of course, they want Hillary to attack Iran... Well, I guess, it will be 9 months of CAPS AND !!!!!!! from them.

reminds me of a toddler throwing a fit

(slimey neocons: pro-war chicken sh*ts!)

Posted by: Casey | April 12, 2008 1:31 AM

I am not Democrat but i admire Mr Obama so much.He is real , we need change , whole world is watching. He has my vote.No more clinton's please , America open your eyes.

Posted by: RYAN | April 12, 2008 1:30 AM

"It reminds me of a toddler on the supermarket floor thowing a fit."

"- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN"

You've nailed it! Yes! In the cereal aisle.

They wanted chocolate coated sugar bombs, but they're going to have to eat their veggies instead.

Posted by: fzdybel | April 12, 2008 1:30 AM

"Mitt Romney understands this one FACT. ENFORCE our Labor Laws requiring W-4's and Worker verification of Eligibility, Pay-rolling, and the Magnet drawing the Illegal Workers is Gone, and soon they will be too! It is an EMPLOYMENT ISSUE! Fine Criminal EMPLOYERS! Yesterday already! :-("

But then who will Mitt get to do his lawn? Remember--he was the one hiring illegals to do his yard work!

Posted by: tom | April 12, 2008 1:30 AM

"When reading the responses of BO supporters on this blog it's really easy to see why Stalin, Hitler and Mussolini were initially so successful during WWII. There seems to be an entire cadre of people who are genetically predisposed to being non-questioning followers."

"Genetically disposed?" Wasn't it Hitler who believed in eugenics?

Posted by: tom | April 12, 2008 1:28 AM

I'M BITTER.

OBAMA WON'T LET ME GIVE HIM bl0wj0bs ANYMORE.

- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:28 AM

I'M BITTER.

OBAMA WON'T LET ME GIVE HIM bl0wj0bs ANYMORE.

- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN

Posted by: OBAMA'S SHRINKAGE PROBLEM | April 12, 2008 1:25 AM

Re:

"We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OSAMA BIN LYING

LIES!

LIES!"

Gee, I thought you had to be over 13 to post messages on these boards. The shrill hysterics is kind of funny, though.

I'm starting to think that the neocons are getting deperate....I think they're starting to realize that Obama won.

It reminds me of a toddler on the supermarket floor thowing a fit.

Posted by: Casey | April 12, 2008 1:25 AM

"grasping at straws comes to mine here Obama supporters! Obama is a ego maniac and very arrogant.! We in small town America have figured this out more then a month ago! His rock star status and fame just went to his head and let him show us the truth of who he really is! The whole Rev Wright issue only confirmed it. What the O-bots and the media doesn't get or the DNC for that matter doesn't get is it is not about Rev. Wright or his views, as wrong as they are. It is about how Obama handled that issue which was so reveling."

I feel that Obama likewise is shedding light to dark America. To redeem herself, America must be moral and not consume its own propaganda. It takes courage to face one's own lies before healing can take place.

Posted by: Sage188 | April 12, 2008 1:21 AM

Obama tells them the truth. The only question now is whether they can digest it. Only the dummies will pretend that he is not talking specifically to them. For the last fourty years the fat cats have used every fear they could conjur to convince people at the lower end of the economic scale that they have something in common with multi-millionaires. I remember a waitress in Orlando, Fla., living in a trailer, when asked why she was voting for Bush, replied, " Al Gore is trying to take away my guns". The mantra "God, Guns, and Gays" will be used again. Will it work again?

Posted by: Warren | April 12, 2008 1:21 AM

I AM BITTER AND I VOTE FOR CHANGE, NO MORE CLINTON'S LIE , NO MORE .

Posted by: ruha | April 12, 2008 1:20 AM

I'm bitter. Obama won't let me give him bl0wj0bs anymore.

- LARRY SINCLAIR, BITTER DRAG QUEEN

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:20 AM

re: "I think Obama's on the money with his comments, but, hey, I'm just a Canadian."

hey man, you're right. ...and yeah, these comments are pretty brain-dead. But, it seems, the american people aren't. Obama will be the next president...he's already won...just Clinton & McCain haven't fully realized it as of yet.

But from the shrill hysterics of some of these anti-Obama post...I think they're starting to realize it

...and notice, there aren't from any real Hillary supporters(already given up?) just the neocons in drag, pretending.

Posted by: KC | April 12, 2008 1:20 AM

"LIES!

LIES!

LIES!"

Is that meta-data? Or part of the payload?

Posted by: fzdybel | April 12, 2008 1:18 AM

I can think of 109 million positions that I like to do with Obama.

-LARRY SINCLAIR

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:18 AM

I'll take a chance on Obama. What do we have to lose? We already know what more of the same we'll get with Hillary or McCain. Nobody knows which of their statements are lies, including the Pres him/herself, until the person is in office. A lot of us thought Bush couldn't speak, but was sincere and right with God or moral decency, etc, yet look at the mess we're in. To heck with party politics, Obama represents a first step in the revolution against traditional polarizing politics.

Posted by: Obama Republican | April 12, 2008 1:17 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OSAMA BIN LYING

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:16 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OSAMA BIN LYING

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:15 AM

This whole country is bitter. And it should be. Bitterness is a pathway to hope and change, a necessary component, if you will. As a Jew, I celebrate Passover every year and eat "bitter herbs" to remember the sorrow of oppression in order to transcend it, in order to remember what we were up against when we fought to free ourselves from our bondage.

Is America not now in a state of struggle? Economically? Because of the war? Because of not only feeling, but actually being neglected by Washington.

Look, I didn't vote for Barack Obama in the California primary because I didn't know much about him, but right now I feel like he identified with my pain, as a Viet Nam Veteran, as a struggling worker in an area that is over-priced while my software job of 15 years was shipped overseas and I spent two years unemployed, and as a homeowner who got burned on a foreclosure. But now I wish I could take my vote back. Finding out that Hillary Clinton made 109 million dollars, made a series of lies to people, and this whole issue with the Colombian Trade support -- where she is clearly joined to her husband at the pocketbook -- makes me wish I could take my vote back.

And I do. I won't vote for her again in the General if she wins. She loses my trust. I'll remain Independent and weigh my other options. But Barack, he's got my vote now. Thank you Sir for knowing the plight of the small man, and knowing that, unlike Hillary Clinton tried to say today, I'm definately not feeling optimistic about it, or about leaders who think optimism can brush it all away.

George Bush has been optimistic his entire presidential career, hah! Some good that's done us.

Anyways, I don't normally write to blogs like this but I was incredibly touched by his speech in Indiana and felt heard. Finally. First time since Bobby Kennedy that I've felt that. No wool pulled over my eyes this time.

Posted by: Art in Modesto, CA | April 12, 2008 1:14 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OSAMA BIN LYING

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:14 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OSAMA BIN LYING

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:12 AM

"Go back to Indonesia"!!!???

Wow. Didn't have the balls to say "Africa"?

There is so much racism in these posts, it stuns me to see who my fellow Americans are.

There's nothing I can say to someone who just wants to be mad. Except you lose in the end. Just don't drag me down with you.

Posted by: self-sycophant | April 12, 2008 1:12 AM

It seems the slime machines have met their match. A candidate who speaks the truth and doesn't shrink from it. Unfortunately for Hillary, she could never get the knack of it, though she did master crying on camera.

Posted by: fzdybel | April 12, 2008 1:12 AM

.

The 44th President of the United States

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 1:12 AM

Some days, I'm super-happy to be Canadian. Some of these comments just freak me out.

I think Obama's on the money with his comments, but, hey, I'm just a Canadian.

Posted by: Whoosh! | April 12, 2008 1:11 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 1:11 AM

You people are not being honest with yourself if you are not pissed off because your job got sucked over. Thank you NAFTA Hillary. You people are not being honest with yourself if you are not pissed off because your loved one has been shot dead or is maimed from the war. Thank you for the war vote Hillary. Your damn right I am bitter!!!

Go Obama!! Give em Hell!!!

Posted by: jsg | April 12, 2008 1:10 AM

Hillary's already lost.

Forbs
Obama's Magic Numbers
In recent weeks, Trailwatch has repeatedly discussed Hillary Clinton's poor prospects for catching Barrack Obama in the delegate race for the Democratic nomination. It is starting to look like Obama can now win enough delegates, 2,024, to secure the nomination before the Democrats meet in late August.
As of today, our affiliate Real Clear Politics tells us that Barack Obama has 1,641 total delegates and Hillary Clinton 1,505. So let's turn to the Forbes Delegate Counter and plug in poll projections for the remaining contests.
The biggest prize ahead is the April 22 contest in Pennsylvania, with 188 delegates at stake. RCP's latest average of polls has Clinton ahead by nearly 8 percentage points in the Keystone State. Assuming this spread holds once the undecided voters make up their minds, Clinton would win 54% of the vote and 85 delegates to Obama's 46% and 73 delegates.
A similar exercise in North Carolina, where the polls currently have Obama with a 16-percentage point lead would deliver 67 delegates to Obama and 48 to Clinton. Real Clear Politics shows only three polls for Indiana, of which Clinton has a 9 point lead in two of them. For argument's sake, we will give her a 10 point lead and 40 delegates versus 32 for Obama.
Real Clear Politics does not have poll numbers for the remaining states, but Obama has a 5.8 percentage point lead over Clinton in RCP's average of national polls. Even if we were to give Clinton the benefit of the doubt and split those remaining contests 50/50, Obama comes out with 1,922 and 1,787 for Clinton.
These calculations still leave Barack Obama more than 100 delegates short of the total needed for the nomination. So let's go to the superdelegates.
At present, 315 superdelegates are still up for grabs. Using our Delegate Calculator, it becomes clear that Obama would need to win just 33%, or 104, of the remaining 315 superdelegates to get over the top.
--Steve Kichen

I am extremely bitter about the way our politicians and leaders have behaved in every department of this govt!

Posted by: EscalationNow | April 12, 2008 1:09 AM

I can think of 109 million reasons that Hillary is out of touch.

Posted by: bc | April 12, 2008 1:08 AM

Get Real
This link puts it in context.
Go to barack obama's website get his original comments on filtered by Hillary. I did research and got audio that confirmed everything on the website. He wasn't criticizing small towns, turns out he was criticizing Washington DC and was right.

Hillary Clinton was the one who was condescending! She's treating people living on the edge like little kids: "Now put on a happy face and be OPTIMISTIC!" I feel like I'm watching Orphan Annie sing "Tomorrow" - except it's been going on for 25 YEARS!

Meanwhile, the Clintons made $110 million. Out of touch? Yes.

Posted by: Tom J | April 12, 2008 1:04 AM

Hillary is old and I bet she has bad breath. Her teeth look terrible up close, all crooked and discolored. Seems she could get some nice dentures for that $109 mil.

Posted by: jsg | April 12, 2008 1:04 AM

More hypocrisy out of the Clinton camp. Talk about a President who would look down on you? You must mean Hillary who is at least $150M wealthier than Obama. Once SHE is elected she will be the TRUE Hillary who is the spoiled brat wife of a disbarred lawyer who became President by lying and stayed there because he never stopped lying even under oath which is why he was disbarred.

The only people who mention the word"hate" are the Clinton Robotitrons who project their own hatred of Obama in every word that comes out of their mouths.

How can any Democrat not be bitter about the jobs lost through Clinton's signing NAFTA into law, this horrible wrong war, & the mess Bushed made our of our economy.

What about the families that lost a child for no good reason or 100,000s of thousands of Veterans who are maimed for life and yet McLame votes AGAINST the GI Bill that is so well deserved and needed by our war Vets. My own father couldn't have made a living if it weren't for the GI Bill that allowed him to become a pharmacist? Do they not have a reason to be better? How bout Cindy Sheehan?

You Clinton machines are either heartless or fools if you don't feel some bitterness.

And finally don't we as Democrats have to worry when one of our candidates is on the same side with the presumptive GOP nominee, Senator McLame?

note: never address any "issues", instead smear him with any association: his pastor, someone who endorses him, his wife, his father,etc. always make racist commments (i.e. compare him to Jim Jones), put his middle name in capital letters...and MOST IMPORTANT repeat it over and over (check FoxNews for latest smear)

remember: Americans are stupid! (look how we got them in the Iraq war!)

if you repeat anything enough, they'll believe it.

then

SAY IF OBAMA IS NOMINATED, YOU WON'T VOTE DEMOCRATIC IN NOVEMBER

* note: this is generally true, but if Hillary is nominated, it doesn't matter who gets elected...you can vote for whomever you want....McCain is slightly better, but both are in our lobby's pocket, i.e. both Clinton and McCain will put America in our WARS

THE NEOCON LOBBY OWNS BOTH MCCAIN AND HILLARY.

but not Obama

WE MUST STOP OBAMA !

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 1:00 AM

Yes, we the people are frustrated and bitter...nothing gets done in Washington!

Posted by: jwj | April 12, 2008 12:59 AM

YES, OBAMA!! YOU'RE RIGHT! I'M FRUSTRATED... SEXUALLY.

PLEASE CALL ME AGAIN FOR A bl0wj0b!!

- LARRY SINCLAIR

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:59 AM

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR!!!

Posted by: wrs | April 12, 2008 12:58 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:58 AM

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR!!!

Posted by: cj | April 12, 2008 12:57 AM

HEY OBAMA, HOW'S LARRY SINCLAIR DOING??!!!

Maybe you could use a good bl0wj0b to release that ANTI-AMERICAN stress you've been feeling lately!!

Posted by: LARRY, I have shrinkage! What do I do? -OBAMA | April 12, 2008 12:56 AM

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR!!!

Posted by: asj | April 12, 2008 12:56 AM

Obama got it right! I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!!! Hillary and McCain are old and out of touch...all they do is play politics, like it's a game. Obama is 3 years out of paying off college loans. Hillary & McCain are multi-millionaires who don't know what it's like to struggle.

Yes, we the people are frustrated and bitter...nothing gets done in Washington!

Posted by: lcview | April 12, 2008 12:56 AM

HEY OBAMA, HOW'S LARRY SINCLAIR DOING??!!!

Maybe you could use a good bl0wj0b to release that ANTI-AMERICAN stress you've been feeling lately!!

.....err, I am a woman, (honest) and I live in southern Illinois...no, I mean, I live in Indianna, no, I mean, Pennsylvania...(Jesus Christ, what am I supposed to write again?)

yes, as I was saying, I am a woman, and I live in Pennsylvania (I think that's how you spell it), and yes, I'm mad as hell at Hillary...no, I mean I am mad as hell at Obama (Hillary comes later, after the nomination) because he's a racist!

Qui Chang Kane is correct; Chinaman is quite offensive. It seems that if an Asian guy says so you could take him at his word or, hey we are online - look into it before you start putting your one spin on it.

Wikipedia - "Today, Asian American organisations and others have objected to the use of the term as offensiveToday, Asian American organisations and others have objected to the use of the term as offensive"

Also not a nice idea to say Mexicans when you mean Hispanic , Latin or Spanish Speaking because Latin America has many countries and many of them vastly different.

Posted by: Daly | April 12, 2008 12:51 AM

OBAMA, HOW'S LARRY SINCLAIR DOING??!!! Maybe you need a good bl0wj0b to release that ANTI-AMERICAN stress you've been feeling lately!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:50 AM

I voted for Obama in the Washington State
Primary and now I'm ashamed I did. He hangs
out with creeps and has no respect for middle America. He's got a great line, but who his friends are says it all about his character. As my gramma used to say: Birds of a feather flock together. His wife has made it perfectly clear on more than one occasion that she has no respect for the USA. Wright/Rezko/Ayers/Meeks-we don't need this garbage in The White House.

Posted by: Tom Colton | April 12, 2008 12:49 AM

I live in the midwest and yes I am very very very very very bitter and angry (need to put this in bold)

How dare the $109 Million, Union-bursting, NAFTA-Signing, Columbia-Trade-Pact-Money-Accepting very rich Clinton claim to be more in touch with us ordinary mortals than BO? Just how stupid do the Clintons think we are in not seeing their hypocrisy?

Rich McCain has no idea what we are facing as we watch our jobs leave the community.

It is no wonder that Clinton and McCain do not know how bitter and angry we are because they move in circles were poverty does not exist among the political game players.

I am very glad that Obama stood his ground against the political families and the pundits who are all out of touch

Posted by: globalcitizenlinda | April 12, 2008 12:49 AM

OSAMA BIN LYING!!

RACIST

CORRUPT

LIAR

ANTI-AMERICAN

MUSLIM

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:48 AM

I am not bitter , how dare he? How dare he be condescending?? I would much rather vote for the senator who made $109 million bucks - she will tell me how I can be rich too. And then I can get MCCain to give me a tax break.

I will never vote for a guy who reminds me how bad my life has become in the last 10 years. Never.

I just dont want to hear the Truth. Plug me back into the Matrix. Give me the Bluepil

Posted by: Neo | April 12, 2008 12:48 AM

OSAMA BIN LYING!!

RACIST

CORRUPT

LIAR

ANTI-AMERICAN

MUSLIM

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:47 AM

OSAMA BIN LYING!!

RACIST

CORRUPT

LIAR

ANTI-AMERICAN

MUSLIM

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:46 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:44 AM

The time for change is here now, Vote for our leader Obama . Lets make America the America we dream of.

Posted by: Jess Hussein | April 12, 2008 12:44 AM

this is just a distraction from the real issues of race - it is now turned into the politics of haves and have-nots. Great masterful move really.

Posted by: sage | April 12, 2008 12:44 AM

HILLARY LOST !

Forbs 4/11/08

Obama's Magic Numbers

In recent weeks, Trailwatch has repeatedly discussed Hillary Clinton's poor prospects for catching Barrack Obama in the delegate race for the Democratic nomination. It is starting to look like Obama can now win enough delegates, 2,024, to secure the nomination before the Democrats meet in late August.
As of today, our affiliate Real Clear Politics tells us that Barack Obama has 1,641 total delegates and Hillary Clinton 1,505. So let's turn to the Forbes Delegate Counter and plug in poll projections for the remaining contests.
The biggest prize ahead is the April 22 contest in Pennsylvania, with 188 delegates at stake. RCP's latest average of polls has Clinton ahead by nearly 8 percentage points in the Keystone State. Assuming this spread holds once the undecided voters make up their minds, Clinton would win 54% of the vote and 85 delegates to Obama's 46% and 73 delegates.
A similar exercise in North Carolina, where the polls currently have Obama with a 16-percentage point lead would deliver 67 delegates to Obama and 48 to Clinton. Real Clear Politics shows only three polls for Indiana, of which Clinton has a 9 point lead in two of them. For argument's sake, we will give her a 10 point lead and 40 delegates versus 32 for Obama.
Real Clear Politics does not have poll numbers for the remaining states, but Obama has a 5.8 percentage point lead over Clinton in RCP's average of national polls. Even if we were to give Clinton the benefit of the doubt and split those remaining contests 50/50, Obama comes out with 1,922 and 1,787 for Clinton.
These calculations still leave Barack Obama more than 100 delegates short of the total needed for the nomination. So let's go to the superdelegates.
At present, 315 superdelegates are still up for grabs. Using our Delegate Calculator, it becomes clear that Obama would need to win just 33%, or 104, of the remaining 315 superdelegates to get over the top.
--Steve Kichen

No, he didn't embelish a story about a trip. He lied about a policy he proported to support and then told a foreign government it was just rhetoric. He took credit for an immigration bill that he didn't go to any meetings on. He creates the illusion that he does not take money from corporate donors when he infact takes bundled money (PACs and lobbyist money has been capped at $2600 by McCain/Fiengold and rendered virtually meaningless. Corporate influence comes through bundling-PAY ATTENTION TO THE REAL FACTS AND DON"T JUST REPEAT RHETORIC)- I won't go into his relationship with his "spiritual guide/mentor" Reverand Wright- but is is detailed in "Dreams of My Father"- maybe read it and learn something about your candidate. I recieve all his mailings, look on his website and read his books. He is an impressive guy but he is not the guy that he presents himself to be. He is the ultimate politician. How else can you explain a strategy to win big in caucus states to overwhelm the delegate count rather than the popular vote (he leads but would not with Florida counted and a fair re-do in MI- or if all the caucuses were primaries)- he is winning technically- the ultimate politician.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:42 AM

Hillary Clinton...Democrat or Republican:

You Judge.

Just a couple of hours ago, the Hillary Clinton campaign sent out an e-mail in which they quoted two Republican strategists.

UPDATE: The Clinton campaign emailed around harsh comments from two Republican pundits:

Grover Norquist: 'That sentence will lose him the election... He just announced to rural America: I don't like you.' "Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House. 'That sentence will lose him the election,' Norquist told ABC News. 'He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'" [abcnews.com, 4/11/08]

I am not bitter , how dare he? How dare he be condescending?? I would much rather vote for the senator who made $109 million bucks - she will tell me how I can be rich too. And then I can get MCCain to give me a tax break.

I will never vote for a guy who reminds me how bad my life has become in the last 10 years. Never.

I just dont want to hear the Truth. Plug me back into the Matrix. Give me the Bluepill

Posted by: Give Me The Blue Pill | April 12, 2008 12:41 AM

To: Hi Mom! Look, Obama is a BIG LOSER!

It appears that you are very bitter tonight. Do you need a hug!!! Don't worry Change is in the Airrrrrrrrrrr Don't you feel it.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:41 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:41 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: CORRUPT, RACIST BARRY OBAMA | April 12, 2008 12:40 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:40 AM

Scoates* folks in Penn who was offended, obviously are bitter and blinded because if they think Hillary or McCain can identify with them, the will spend time moving oversees to find jobs when the remaining jobs are shipped out on Bill and Hills NAFTA plan!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:39 AM

Who wouldn't be bitter after losing their job and not having anything promising on the horizon? I certainly would, and I would cling to my faith/religion to get me through. I don't care at all for guns, but I suppose that's one way that the breadwinner can bring home meat for the family table.

All Barack Obama did was tell the truth. Unfortunately, there are some who misinterpreted what he said and attempted to use it against him. That's really bad, but I suppose they think it will get them votes.

Oh, that's right, when you've been caught in a lie, you point down the street and yell "The roof is on fire". That way the negative attention which was focused on you gets focused elsewhere.

The people in the small towns have done the best they can to make decent, respectable lives for themselves without counting on handouts, playing the race card, breaking any laws, etc., etc., etc.

Funny how he's willing to lob the label "bitter" at states with majority-white populations, but portrays blacks as victims. Give me a break.

Posted by: mclovin | April 12, 2008 12:39 AM

Hillary has never had a problem getting money, thats why her campaign ran out of money because it was grossly mismanaged and they were spending it like it was going out of style.

Would you really like to trust this woman to run our economy? Someone whose election campaign went broke and had to be financed from Billarys $110 million they made writing books and lecturing people how they got good BJ's in the white house?

Get real people. Obama is the real deal.

Posted by: Dollar woes | April 12, 2008 12:38 AM

The KFC Hillary Special:

- 2 small breasts
- 2 fat thighs
- 1 left wing

Posted by: rjr | April 12, 2008 12:38 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:37 AM

Some of you are so stupid! Obama was saying that alot of you in Penn are mad because youhave been lied to so long that that you dont trust the Gov. anymore and he knows your pain. All this has been taking out of context again. Geez lets be real

Posted by: scoates8 | April 12, 2008 12:37 AM

I, "svreader," hereby recant every filthy and dishonest slur I've uttered about Sen. Barack Obama over these past few months. I realize now how wrong I've been to slander this fine and upstanding man, and I now heartily endorse him to be the Democratic nominee. I further urge Sen. Hillary Clinton (who I no longer have an irrational and unrequited crush on) to leave the race before she does even more damage to the Democratic Party and its inevitable nominee, Sen. Obama. Hillary, I finally understand that my secret desires were unnatural and unhealthy, and in the interests of our great country I renounce both them and you. Please, please go now.

________

Note: Since the real svreader is once again neglecting his regular ID tonight (he's used at least six new made-up names to make it look like he's several different posters), he shouldn't mind if I borrow it and try and rehabilitate it. Maybe it's not too late to have "him" do some good for a change. :-) -- wmr

Posted by: svreader | April 12, 2008 12:37 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:36 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:36 AM

A vote for HILLARY is a vote for the KISS OF DEATH!!! Pennsylvania will not only be bitter they will be 95% jobless!!!

Folks please go and take an economics class!!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:36 AM

RealChoices wrote: At least he didn't make up a story about taking sniper fire. Hillary is such a shameless liar

No, but he did make up a story about His parents and Selma, he did lie about Rezko, he did lie about never hearing any of Wright's remarks, he did lie about filling out the campaign questionnaire, he did lie in Iowa about some of his achievements.

Hello pot...meet kettle. I think it's time to find a new defense.

Posted by: Anne | April 12, 2008 12:36 AM

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: OBAMA GO HOME! NOBODY WANTS YOU! | April 12, 2008 12:35 AM

.

44th President of the United States:

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA !

.

Posted by: Jefferson | April 12, 2008 12:35 AM

Oh Lets not forget Hillary has a mountain of debt, where she owes the Girl Scouts and some more business, where her campaign frequented!!! This is enough to make anyone bitter. The GIRL SCOUTS!!! Cmon Hillary have some class. How do you screw over the girl scouts of America. I guess she will laugh this off when she goes back on Jay Leno.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:34 AM

Hillary is so disgraceful she even dare make a joke about her lying about sniper fire in front of a national audience on the Jay Leno show, and the joke fizzled, it was sooo embaressing to see her try to twist it.... it didnt work.

HILLARY DUCK, THERE IS SNIPER FIRE!!!! and the American people are gonna getchya.

Posted by: Steven Colbert | April 12, 2008 12:34 AM

Weakling, scared of Hillary.

Gore remembers Florida and all Americans remember Florida.

Obama forgets Florida and Michigan, what a sissy man.

Posted by: Great American | April 12, 2008 12:33 AM

I am not bitter , how dare he? How dare he be condescending?? I would much rather vote for the senator who made a$100 million bucks - she will tell me how I can be rich too. And then I can get MCCain to give me a tax break.
But I will never vote for a guy who reminds me how bad my life has become in the last 10 years. Never. I just dont want to hear the Truth. PLug me back into the Matrix

Posted by: Neo | April 12, 2008 12:33 AM

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: OBAMA THE BIGGEST LOSER | April 12, 2008 12:33 AM

I am not bitter , how dare he? How dare he be condescending?? I would much rather vote for the senator who made a$100 million bucks - she will tell me how I can be rich too. And then I can get MCCain to give me a tax break.
But I will never vote for a guy who reminds me how bad my life has become in the last 10 years. Never. I just dont want to hear the Truth. PLug me back into the Matrix

Posted by: Neo | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

Shauna,
Don't lie- you never supported Hillary- Obama has also made millions from books and speeches- so what? That has nothing to do with what they are going to do when president- policy and record are the best indicators of what they would do. Her record is very good and her policies are more ambitious than his. All the rhetoric in the world won't change that- especially not stereotyping people- there are a whole lot more of us exist more like the Rosanne show than the Cosby show or Desperate housewives.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

OBAMA

LIES!

LIES!

LIES!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

Mark -
You're clearly a bit predisposed to hate him, because that's not what he said at all.

He said you *vote* on Guns, God, and Gays because you don't trust the Gov't on heathcare, jobs, and retirement. The reason you don't is because you've been lied to time after time after time. Since you think no politician can help the on the latter issues, you go with what you've got left. Simple, really.

Posted by: Mason | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

Yes, Sen. Obama is correct I am bitter. Considering the state of the Union, I think Sen. Clinton and McCain are out of touch to respond as they have.

Posted by: Nicole | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

I live in Florida and Obama had nothing to do with votes being blocked. Our own political leaders could not come up with a plan to even present to Obama or Clinton.

Research before you make comments!!!

Posted by: FLORIDA-NATIVE | April 12, 2008 12:32 AM

Hmmm, Obama falls into the abyss of the Rev Wright HATE agenda.

No Obama, small town people are not full of hate, the opposite is true. They love their neighbor. They are hurt financially, unlike you, they do believe in a brighter tomorrow, so they trust and believe in Hillary Clinton.

We did not know the TUCC preached hate until you started quoting Rev Wright. Now you are still quoting him. We are able to extrapolate your attitude from your sentences. Too bad we do not need more hate in this world created in the last 8 years, and we do not want to hear hate messages from you.

Posted by: Roosevelt1 | April 12, 2008 12:30 AM

I don't even know if this display of such low-level intelligence really deserves a responce but, I Recall a story BO told regarding his parents and Selma, that turned out to be a lie...enough said.

Posted by: Anne | April 12, 2008 12:23 AM
===========

Ann you elitist self rightous bimbo, stop pretending to be so high and mighty, little pompous freak and STFU as well....enough said my a$$.

Posted by: Hillary the HO | April 12, 2008 12:30 AM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:30 AM

I am white (not that it matters) I work my butt off to support my family and a Senator who made $100 million dollars is calling Obama elitist?? He speaks the TRUTH! ANd I never seen this before. He gets my vote. ANd I am telling everyone. You want your job , you want the American Dream again - vote Obama.

More empty promises, want to hear a polititian tell you what you want to hear? Go to a Clinton Rally.

Want to hear more about the war and tax cuts for your boss? Vote McCain

Posted by: Dave | April 12, 2008 12:29 AM

Obama is such a lying, SNAKE, WEASEL that he keeps BLOCKING the re-vote in MI and FL!!!

WHY?

BECAUSE OBAMA WILL LOSE!!!!

Better get used to it!!!

Posted by: cry, OBAMA, cry | April 12, 2008 12:29 AM

Obama is such a lying, SNAKE, WEASEL that he keeps BLOCKING the re-vote in MI and FL!!!

WHY?

BECAUSE OBAMA WILL LOSE!!!!

Better get used to it!!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:28 AM

Mark in Small Town, PA

We heard you the first time and you must be one of those folks who likes a sugar coated truth. Many Americans are bitter and fed up and to vote for Hillary or McCain is like shooting yourself in head!!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:28 AM

Where was Hillary when Bill Clinton was getting bl0wj0bs from Monica Lewinsky and shoving cigars into her private parts?

All this was done again and again in the most dignified office of the nation, the Oval office.

Posted by: | April 12, 2008 12:21 AM
-------------------------------

American people have very short term memory thats why George Carlin says we deserve the corrupt leaders who screw us because we put them there, again and again.

Posted by: Dollar woes | April 12, 2008 12:27 AM

nia wrote: He was raised by a single Mom who was on food stamps. Elitist? No I don't think so!!

OMG lol again, do you even research you're own Candidate? Obama was raised in Hawaii by his mom and his grandparents, he attended the best Private Schools there.

Posted by: Anne | April 12, 2008 12:27 AM

He said people have grievances, so what? That isn't news. At least he didn't make up a story about taking sniper fire. Hillary is such a shameless liar, Obama would be an improvement regardless of what he said.

Posted by: RealChoices | April 12, 2008 12:27 AM

OBAMA ALL THE WAY!!! FINALLY A CANDIDATE WITH THE GUTS TO TELL IT LIKE IT IS!!! I WILL BE VOTING FOR OBAMA FROM HERE ON OUT!!! NO MORE LIES, NO MORE GAMES, NO MORE HILLARY!!! GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: hoosierman | April 12, 2008 12:26 AM

*******************

Just for the record....

I live in a small town in PA and I found Obama's remarks VERY offensive. So I cling to my religion and guns, huh??

Better that than to a corrupt, race-baiting, ANTI-American running for President!

***********************

Posted by: Mark in Small Town, PA | April 12, 2008 12:26 AM

I am white. I am a female. And I was supporting Hillary.
Not Any more!

She made $109 MILLION and I lost my job.

She votes for outsourcing.

Bill Clinton got millions from Indian and Colombian lobbyists.

ANd Obama is Elitist???

No more HIllary. No more McCain. No more LIes

Posted by: Shauna | April 12, 2008 12:25 AM

As a white American, I am appalled at some of these remarks. Despite the disbelief of many white American. Many of us need to take a look at the issue of race. Many of you arbor such hatred and vile remarks. Ask yourself why? it is not because Barack is a bad leader, it is because he the first candidate that is telling the truth and sometime we as Americans don't want the truth. We want thing Sugar Coated and Iced Over, well it is time for Change and this is why Obama will get my vote in PA.

Posted by: PA-FiredUp&Ready2GO!!! | April 12, 2008 12:24 AM

*******************

Just for the record....

I live in a small town in PA and I found Obama's remarks VERY offensive. So I cling to my religion and guns, huh??

Better that than to a corrupt, race-baiting, ANTI-American running for President!

***********************

Posted by: MARK in Small Town, PA | April 12, 2008 12:24 AM

Carressa, FLORIDA said: "When will Hillary and camp Attack learn that God does not like UGLY"

Well he sure must not like Reverend Wright,especially when he was "riding dirty" and gyrating in a House of the God

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jane-Ohio said: Obama is the only candidate that has struggled growing up!!! And anyone who does not see that needs a reality history lesson.

struggled? this shows how little you know about him, He grew up in Hawaii and attended the most Elite Private Schools there.

Hillary the HO: This is a non issue and is tiny compared to the BIG LIE ABOUT SNIPER FIRE IN THE BALKANS.

Hillary you fat ankled lying witch, please STFU.

I don't even know if this display of such low-level intelligence really deserves a responce but, I Recall a story BO told regarding his parents and Selma, that turned out to be a lie...enough said.

Posted by: Anne | April 12, 2008 12:23 AM

I am bitter about how Washington has screwed this country over.
And I am optimistic that Barack Obama will make a difference.

WAKE UP PEOPLE! IF you want more poverty and war - vote McCAin or that "sleep deprived misspeaking" $109 million dollar Senator Clinton.

I will vote Obama.

Did I mention I am bitter??

Posted by: Diane | April 12, 2008 12:23 AM

Preview your Comment

Hmmm, Obama falls into the abyss of the Rev Wright HATE agenda.

No Obama, small town people are not full of hate, the opposite is true. They love their neighbor. They are hurt financially, unlike you, they do believe in a brighter tomorrow, so they trust and believe in Hillary Clinton.

We did not know the TUCC preached hate until you started quoting Rev Wright. Now you are still quoting him. We are able to extrapolate your attitude from your sentences. Too bad we do not need more hate in this world created in the last 8 years, and we do not want to hear hate messages from you.

Posted by: Roosevelt1 | April 12, 2008 12:20 AM

Posted by: Roosevelt1 | April 12, 2008 12:23 AM

The spinners have got this one all wrong. Senator Obama is the only candidate who knows that a comfortable middle class life has disappeared. Those two incomes that are absolute necessities now? They pay for rising mortgages, gas, food, no savings. Going out for dinner? To a ball game? To the beach or to the mountains? Distant memories all of them. Bitter? That would be the polite word for it.

Ever since the Reagan administration had the audacity to tell public schools that ketchup in future would be counted as a vegetable, Americans have seen presidents create their own realities. No more. We want a real president who is honest with us and will ask for our help and will have the courage to say, "United We Stand."

Senator Obama gets it, and the spinner and pundits blew this one. Senator Clinton and Senator McCain will look back on this as the day they misread the American public.

Posted by: clueless pundits | April 12, 2008 12:23 AM

*******************

Just for the record....

I live in a small town in PA and I found Obama's remarks VERY offensive. So I cling to my religion and guns, huh??

Better that than to a corrupt, race-baiting, ANTI-American running for President!

***********************

Posted by: Mark in Small Town, PA | April 12, 2008 12:22 AM

to some folks, obama threatens them just by existing -- whenever he says anything that shows thinking or understanding, these folks go into hysterics -- they want to be able to patronize him, pigeonhole him -- clintonistas particularly go wild with anguish because he's more articulate than bill

Posted by: herbert de turbot | April 12, 2008 12:21 AM

Where was Hillary when Bill Clinton was getting bl0wj0bs from Monica Lewinsky and shoving cigars into her private parts?

All this was done again and again in the most dignified office of the nation, the Oval office.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:21 AM

The only thing Obama blew was the fresh air of truth.
McCain is better off in Ariz with the "country club set"
He can probably be guest speaker at the ladies club championship
dinner but don't call on him for much more than that.
75% of Americans want out of Iraq and he wants their vote so we can stay "until the job is done"...........Hard to call that being "in touch"......duh

Posted by: billy 7 | April 12, 2008 12:20 AM

Certainly angry leads to hate. You already see Uncle Wright. Keep calling more to join him?

What is his change about? Simply break the current system and destroy the fundation?

Smart-Do-Nothing has kept something really really deep in heart.

Smart-Do-Nothing is no much harm.
Smart-Do-Everything is too dangerous.

Posted by: jy2008 | April 12, 2008 12:20 AM

Republicans have no room to laugh at Democrats, they have issues within their own party. They cannot even gather around McCain and he has all of the delegate count!!! talk about SPLIT!!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:20 AM

Neocon play-book

.....err, I am a woman, (honest) and I live in southern Illinois...no, I mean, I live in Indianna, no, I mean, Pennsylvania...(Jesus Christ, what am I supposed to write again?)

yes, as I was saying, I am a woman, and I live in Pennsylvania (I think that's how you spell it), and yes, I'm mad as hell at Hillary...no, I mean I am mad as hell at Obama (Hillary comes later, after the nomination) because he's a racist!

Posted by: Patriotic American Who Cares About The LIttle Guy and Values, and..... | April 12, 2008 12:20 AM

I have voted Republican all my life. But for the first time, I can see how I've been played. I lost my job to outsourcing - YEs I am bitter!

They made me focus on pro-life when they are taking my job away - Yes I am bitter!

They made me get all worked up about gay marriage when they took my pension away - Yes I am Bitter!

Obama speaks the truth - I will only vote for him now! Yes I can!!

Posted by: Sean | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

obama should be watched closely. there's something about him that is not real.

Posted by: beckenbuer | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: SMALL TOWN, PA | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

Coming from a small pennsylvania town, I'd say he hit the nail on the head. The fact that clinton has the audacity to say that generally, we think everything is hunky-dory is a load of manure.

When taken out of context, obama's comments sound insulting, but when used within the frame of what he actually said, it's 100% accurate.

Posted by: Matt | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

It is Clinton who does not get it. Southwest Pennsylvania has been deteriating before my very eyes. Everytime I visit my family there it gets worse. My family is beyond bitter. They are apathetic.

Posted by: AJ from small town America | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

Mr. Obama's quote was made in response to a question about why he was behind in the polls in Pennsylvania. Rather than taking a positive approach about his campaign strategies, he grouped together all people who prefer another candidate as bitter, ignorant and cynical. The fact that informed voters may be making an educated decision to vote for HRC is lost on him and makes him seem arrogant and out of touch. The fact that some of these voters have suffered economically doesn't justify or explain why he chose to tap into stereotypes about poor, rural, white America. His response was extremely divisive.
Some people want to read into his statement an attempt to be honest and shed light on the reality of rural PA, but he made his comments in a mansion in SF where the audience laughed when he joked about the reaction of small town American voters to a black politician. His link between guns, religion, and xenophobia to explain why he's losing the vote was disappointing and delegitimizes how people make decisions and live their lives in rural America. I think the energy of his campaign is great, but it seriously concerns me that he and his supporters are oblivious to how ugly and hurtful his comments were. If he is to bring us together--to unify us--he must give the people in small town Pennsylvania the same respect as his wealthy donors in San Francisco.

Posted by: Wade | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

Obama is speaking the truth and calling Hillary/McCain on their wedge issue BS. Go Obama!

Posted by: Ruth | April 12, 2008 12:19 AM

!.
SO DID 26 OTHER DEMOCRATIC SENATORS AND BARAK STATED IN 2004 THAT 'I DON'T KNOW HOW I WOULD HAVE VOTED"

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:18 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Small Town, PA | April 12, 2008 12:18 AM

Hey Hillary all the way- why don't you go live with the Clintons so Bill can "ride you dirty"!!!

Posted by: squeekyclean | April 12, 2008 12:18 AM

Yes, I am bitter too. I am so glad someone is really listening...God knows we all need a change. I am willing to give Obama a try.
GO OBAMA!!

Posted by: Pam | April 12, 2008 12:17 AM

Oh Lets not forget has a mountain of debt, where she owes the Girl Scouts and some more business, where her campaign frequented!!! This is enough to make anyone bitter. The GIRL SCOUTS!!! Cmon Hillary have some class. How do you screw over the girl scouts of America. I guess she will laugh this off when she goes back on Jay Leno.

Posted by: WhiteWoman4Obama!!!! | April 12, 2008 12:17 AM

PRESIDENT HILLARY CLINTON!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:16 AM

out-of-touch? who's out of touch? Obama?
give me a break!!

Hey~~Mcsame/Mcbush, Hil-Lar-Y~
you guys are out of touch with American people!!!

stop spinning guys!!!

Posted by: what a joke | April 12, 2008 12:16 AM

I live in small town Pennsylvania, I am overwhelmed that finally someone has it right, I am tired of all the BS coming from Hillary and that other guy named John. We don't trust, to many Bushes, Clintons, Shusters and selfish members of congress.

Posted by: jilojac | April 12, 2008 12:15 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:15 AM

I love the audience of internet oriented professionals (bloggers)telling small town rural America and working class people what they feel. You want to talk about elitist? Two sociology courses in college don't make you an expert on what people are thinking or feeling and/or what motivates people to do what they do. We are all people with complicated motivations and should not be stereotyped into these simple convenient pictures.

What Barak said has elements of truth but is also very elitist and very patronizing. In this echo chamber of like-minded Obamites every thing he does is looked at as a bold move. Clearly when you are stereotyped as a bunch of no-experience pie-in-the-sky ivory tower types you get offended. Try to think about that before you make judgements on anyone else. You can't truly understand where someone is at until you've been in their shoes for a while- but atleast be aware of that fact.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:15 AM

John McCain and Hillary Clinton are so far out of touch with the working person in this country that they might as well live in France.

Barack Obama is the only one that understands. We ARE bitter.

Posted by: Dave | April 12, 2008 12:14 AM

Wow, all the people who think Obama is twisting words... I read his speeches and they seem more straightforward than anything else I hear in politics. His platform has always been for those of us who are disenfranchised by our government - voters like me. I do feel the way that he does, and maybe you "uplifted, out of work" sorts do, but it's been a really long time since I've felt like I had a say in the way our government represents us, and for the first time in my life, I'm listening to a politician who thinks like I do, and sees the problems, not the symptoms. I don't see twisting here - I see an honest assessment of psychology and sociology. His problem is that he's got to win over the uneducated as well. That's where he's hitting his wall. They're not smart enough to see past the hocus pocus that's lead them to the sad state they're currently in, and it's a shame that they're so determined to dig their grave even deeper.

Posted by: JR | April 12, 2008 12:14 AM

I love this! The socialist Dems are showing their true colors for all of the world to see! Every time they open their mouths, they show how ignorant they are about the bare, basic reasons America is the greatest country in the world. Cowards and poverty-pimps do not make good presidents! Keep yapping away Hillary and Obama! Keep America safe and free.

Posted by: Mark | April 12, 2008 12:14 AM

America deserves better than the Bush, Clinton, McCain bullshyt and I am here to change it.

Imagine how rich America would have been had we kept all those Chinese and Indian and NAFTA outsourced jobs.... you people have no idea, we could be enjoying a life of great wealth with jobs, healthcare, good schools, less crime, without useless wars and giving away jobs overseas that benefit the few elites at the top.

Stop voting against your own interests, you have already tried a Bush and a Clinton, McCain is a mini-me Bush, try something new, President Obama will usher ina new era of prosperity and peace globally and return Americas prestige back to it.

Posted by: Barack Obama | April 12, 2008 12:14 AM

Such name-calling, such idiots. Are you not all democrats?? Better stop this stuff, because the republicans are laughing all the way to the White House. Just what they want and need. A bunch of unorganized democrats.
Check out how many republican presidents we have had vs. democrats since 1897. Yep, read it and weep. And there is a good reason.
Democrats cannot get together.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:14 AM

Fact: McCain and Clinton both have major lobbyists involved with their camapaigns. Obama does not.

Fact: If you elect someone who is owes corporate favors, they will do those favors even at the expense of their constituents.

Fact: You can be immature and prejudicial by calling Obama by racist and other derogatory names and focus on nothing but propaganda and hatred or you can be real and discuss the issues that are destroying the American dream.

As a white man, I find it very sad that so many people in the McCain and Clinton camps are choosing to spread hatred, racism and divisiveness during this election rather than focusing on issues and integrity. Then again, they don't have records of integrity when it comes to serving as Senators. They have both flip flopped on major issues like the war, torture, and trade agreements, and they both cater to and are part of the "American Elite". They are part of the one percent who own more than 25% of America just like the "robber barons" of the 1920's who lead us into the great depression. "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

Obama has followed the same agenda throughout his adult life from his time working as a community activist on the streets of Chicago to floor of the U.S. senate. He has always worked to help his constituents and the American people. He has not sold his soul to corporations. He is a man of the people for the people. He is an honorable man who is willing to fight against the establishment for the sake of the great people of this nation, yet so many of you would support those who work for the corporations who enslave you. Corporations have been telling American's for a century what to eat, what to wear, and what you need in life to succeed. Funny how corporations got rich and powerful and Americans got a lot of crap they never use, the largest proportion of obese people in the world, and a health care system that costs more than any other country in the world yet excludes over 45 million people and keeps people sick by treating symptoms instead of the underlying diseases so you have to go to the doctor more often and they make more money.

Bush, McCain and Clinton have come close to destroying our democracy by catering to the military industrial complex, oil companies, insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies and other big corporations. Keeping them in power will only add to the problems of America. Living in denial will not make America a better place to live. We need to face the truth of our past and then work together to make a better future, a future where our children, our health and our quality of life are more important than corporate profits.

Posted by: DaveS | April 12, 2008 12:13 AM

Damn right I am BITTER! I am working my butt off and making less than last year. I got my IRA in the mail yesterday and it's on the way downhill. Our health insurance is out the roof and I just filled my tank and bought groceries and now I'm ill at what it cost me.

But my problems are nothing; one of my friends lost her cousin to Iraq and 2 of my clients have just lost their jobs and they are older folks that aren't highly employable.

Am I bitter? Maybe frustrated and angry are better words for what I feel. And I tell you, I come from a small town with a lot of houses sitting on the market and a lot of people here are on a slow burn.

So, go hide your heads in the sand and say all is well in America. We need some help and fast and I will vote for the man who tells it like it is. Time for all of us to grow up and bite the bullet. OBAMA 08

Robin 47 yr old, middle class, small town typical white woman, who does not drink lattes or wear Birkenstocks.

Posted by: robinann | April 12, 2008 12:12 AM

Obama is sympathetic and understanding. Unlike nearly every TV pundit, he was not being patronizing. He was responding to the condescending picture that the media is constantly painting of Pennsylvania, a picture initially created and fueled by Clinton goon James Carville's wisecracks. His point is that he understands why a variety of people are frustrated, distrustful and resentful. They should be! They've been ignored and ripped off and haven't been able to count on outside help (past administrations), so they're very protective of what remains of their own resources and their families and communities. Obama understands this. He's defending them! If Clinton and McCain aren't aware that people are bitter and angry about the sorry state of our Union, then they're is totally out of touch with human spirit.
"During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." - George Orwell

Posted by: KrisB9 | April 12, 2008 12:12 AM

"To which Obama campaign spokesman Tommy Vietor says in a statement: "Senator Obama has said many times in this campaign that Americans are understandably upset with their leaders in Washington for saying anything to win elections..."

Oh you mean they say anything as in 'things' like the truth? they quote Obama's exact words in fact, so I guess what Obama is saying is just any old thing then too huh? his own words they are saying? I think it is getting quite obvious who is the one saying anything to get elected, and using that tired old line of defense, this weak and feeble attempt to defend Obama every time, EVERY single time someone calls Obama on his own, often weird and out of touch insults towards people is getting tired and old. The record is what is, Obama cannot run from his own foul words, mocking group after group of Americans......he hates white Americans, he hates small town Americans, he is condescending to women, he obviously doesn't connect with Hispanics as they are all voting for Hillary, his wife was never 'proud to be an American' as evidenced by her very own words, and why are people still supporting this jerk? Hillary Clinton is the one to represent this country, she cares, she knows and she is for REAL.

Posted by: Hillary All the Way | April 12, 2008 12:11 AM

The man is right on the money ( spot on ) , he is the only one that has the guts to speak the truth , and thats why people try to attack him so much............they don't know what the truth looks like. This country is long over due for a great leader like Obama.

Damn straight we are bitter , and Obama is the ONLY one that ( GETS IT ).

Posted by: Jim | April 12, 2008 12:10 AM

Folks, let it be known that Barack Hussein is definitely wanting to get the Struggling White Middle Class Working also!

At his Summer House in Martha's Vineyard! ;~)

"Typical Bitter White Person-You missed a spot!"

Posted by: RAT-The | April 12, 2008 12:10 AM

People in Pennsylvannia better wake up and stop believing the spin of Hillary because the reality of the matter is: HILLARY has nothing in common with any of us other than she is the pursuader and many of you fall into the TRANCE of deep sleep.

Hillary knows nothing about struggling. Name a day that she had to struggle growing up???????? I have a life time for you to come up with something!!!!

Posted by: Loud&Clear, PA | April 12, 2008 12:10 AM

Marchelle Law? Is that French?

Posted by: Jon | April 12, 2008 12:10 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:10 AM

16 Years of America down the drain thanks to Clinton and Bush liars.

1. I did not have sex with that woman.

2. read my lips no new taxes

3. iraq bought uranium from Niger

4. We ran for our lives under sniper fire.

Posted by: Dollar woes | April 12, 2008 12:09 AM

I am bitter because my mortgage is going up and I can't pay it. I'm bitter because of rising gas prices, rising health care costs and a sluggish economy. I work hard everyday and I'm still struggling to pay the bills. Barack Obama is the only one qualified to feel my pain. He was raised by a single Mom who was on food stamps. Elitist? No I don't think so!! America needs Obama

Posted by: Nia | April 12, 2008 12:08 AM

HRC and McCain have made another mistake, BTW are they running on the same ticket here or what? BHO is going to take that bitter remark and jam it down their throats. Damn right former union workers are bitter because HRC and hubby pushed NAFTA. Damn right poor folks are bitter because McCain abandoned them on tax cuts for the rich. Like folks aren't bitter in this economy while HRC and Bill made $109 Million since they left office. How dumb can their political folks be? People in Pennsylvania aren't bitter? The whole country is bitter, except those who are rich or making money off the war in Iraq.

Like they couldn't figure out BHO couldn't take that bitter remark and use it to jump another 2-3 points. How stupid can the folks running those campaigns be? Forget the bitter remark, use the stereotype that they are anti-immigrant, overly religious gun nuts. That ties him into Wright. But too late, they took their shot with bitterness. How dumb is that?

And BHO is inexperienced? McCain and HRC seem to be the ones fumbling the job here. People are going to be upset because BHO thinks they are bitter? Hah! Another check in the BHO column.

Posted by: NoKidding1 | April 12, 2008 12:08 AM

You people need to start shooting each other. That is the only way you will change any thing. Because then we will have law Marchelle law.

Posted by: Ralph | April 12, 2008 12:08 AM

Hillary's desperation and McCain's hypocrisy are amazing. All across America people have been left behind because our national and state governments are owned by the special interests. Yes Hillary and John, around kitchen tables in this country there is a lot of bitterness. Bitterness is to be expected when people are disenfranchised. So, Barack Obama tells it the way it is, and Hillary and John go ballistic in there attempt to turn Obama's honesty against him. Barack Obama isn't being disrespectful. Hillary and McCain are being disrespectful, because they think they can continue to fool the vast majority of American voters into believing that it is somehow un-American to talk about the real problems facing our families. As Lincoln said: "You can fool some of the people sometimes, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time." Working together we can make America a better place for all of our people. But we need to be prepared to have an honest and open discussion. I commend Barack Obama for his honesty, courage, and determination.

Posted by: Hans Niehus | April 12, 2008 12:08 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:07 AM

Obama doesn't want to stop the war, he just wants to move it to a new location!

Posted by: David Jensen | April 12, 2008 12:06 AM

Hahahaha! Hillary just proved that she cant fight anything to nail Obama with, and little opportunist McCain jumped right on a bandwagon led by a train of little donkeys going nowhere fast.

This is a non issue and is tiny compared to the BIG LIE ABOUT SNIPER FIRE IN THE BALKANS.

Hillary you fat ankled lying witch, please STFU.

Posted by: Hillary the HO | April 12, 2008 12:06 AM

I am bitter becuase we have stood by for 8 years of clinton and another 8 years of Bush and watched this country come to the verge of bankrupcy.

I am bitter because we have had a president who has shamed us by engaging in extra-marital affairs in the White House, and another who lied to the American people and under false pretense and instilling fear the hearts and minds of teh American people invaded a sovereign country just to please his oil company buddies.

I am bitter because we, as a nation, have stood by and allowed the government of the Untied States trample on the Constitution and invade citizens' privacy under the guise of homeland security.

I am bitter because Washington is a cesspool.

I am bitter because Clinton imposed the largest signle tax increase on the American people, and then threw a party at the White House to celeberate it.

I am bitter because Bush has vetoed every bill that would have benefited the average American.

Posted by: Vietnam Vet | April 12, 2008 12:05 AM

Operation kaos is working keep those dems at each others throats.

Posted by: Southernman | April 12, 2008 12:05 AM

Obama is the only one speaking the truth, the others are embarrassed that someone actually spoke the truth about the horrible jobs THEY have done in Washington...NOTHING that made a difference for most of us! Yes I am bitter, yes I haven't much left to cling to but faith...and I put ALL my faith in Barack Obama!

Posted by: sundancepdx | April 12, 2008 12:05 AM

I am from a small town in a poor rural county in California and you bet people here without jobs and unable to afford housing are bitter. We have lost our major industries due to outsourcing and environmental conditions. While Bill Clinton's Workforce Investment Act was supposed to help, what we saw was the majority of the funding go to the big cities in the south of the state. There were no safeguards built into the plan to help the rural counties. Our economic situation only worsened under the Bush administration.

Senator Obama does understand the plight and the bitterness of people who have watched their jobs disappear, their homes go into foreclosure, and their children move away in search of livelihoods. That is why he won in this California county's primary.

Posted by: Kathleen | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

Obama-bashers: better come up with something a little more effective than the playground-level shouting and namecalling. No-one else is listening.

It's a long way to November, folks. The old material just ain't cutting it anymore. Unless you come up with an extra-special superduper capslock key, it's all just noise.

But hey, you knew that already, huh?

Posted by: papercutswcni | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

We're mad as hell and we're not taking this anymore.

Hillary is such a drama queen... no Hillary, people are angry because the Clinton and Bush regimes have given jobs away to India, Mexico and China.

Obama nailed it..... Hillary looks stupid for bringing up... nothing.

McCain is the most disconnected elite rich white man in the nation second to Hillary.

Posted by: Steven Colbert | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

We're mad as hell and we're not taking this anymore.

Hillary is such a drama queen... no Hillary, people are angry because the Clinton and Bush regimes have given jobs away to India, Mexico and China.

Obama nailed it..... Hillary looks stupid for bringing up... nothing.

McCain is the most disconnected elite rich white man in the nation second to Hillary.

Posted by: Steven Colbert | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

EMB:

She also voted for the next war in Iran when she voted to label the Iranian Revolutionary Guard a terrorist organization

Look for the Bush administration to use that as a reason to bomb Iran before his administration is up.

Fool me once, shame on me.
Fool me twice, shame on you.

Hillary Clinton is a hawk.

And, oh yea, she's a Republican too.

Hillary Clinton...Democrat or Republican:

You Judge.

Just a couple of hours ago, the Hillary Clinton campaign sent out an e-mail in which they quoted two Republican strategists.

UPDATE: The Clinton campaign emailed around harsh comments from two Republican pundits:

Grover Norquist: 'That sentence will lose him the election... He just announced to rural America: I don't like you.' "Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House. 'That sentence will lose him the election,' Norquist told ABC News. 'He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'" [abcnews.com, 4/11/08]

I live in a small town in PA and I found Obama's remarks VERY offensive. So I cling to my religion and guns, huh??

Better that than to a corrupt, race-baiting, ANTI-American running for President!

Posted by: Mark in PENNSYLVANIA | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

We're mad as hell and we're not taking this anymore.

Hillary is such a drama queen... no Hillary, people are angry because the Clinton and Bush regimes have given jobs away to India, Mexico and China.

Obama nailed it..... Hillary looks stupid for bring up... nothing.

McCain is the most disconnected elite rich white man in the nation second to Hillary.

Posted by: Steven Colbert | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

We're mad as hell and we're not taking this anymore.

Hillary is such a drama queen... no Hillary, people are angry because the Clinton and Bush regimes have given jobs away to India, Mexico and China.

Obama nailed it..... Hillary looks stupid for bring up... nothing.

McCain is the most disconnected elite rich white man in the nation second to Hillary.

Posted by: Steven Colbert | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

If multi-millionaire Hillary Clinton wants to live in a dream land and not believe people are fed up and bitter on the way Washington works, SHE is the one that is out of touch. Barack is just telling it like it is, because he is the ONLY candidate that relates to us.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

OBAMA JUST WON THE ELECTION WITH HIS BEAUTIFUL COMMENT!!! GOD BLESS OBAMA OUR NEXT PRESIDENT!!!

Posted by: shyroses | April 12, 2008 12:04 AM

BHO condescended AGAIN to poor white folk. I interpreted his remarks as racist and, AGAIN, divisive. The media won't call him on it because they're afraid of Sharpton Imus-sizing them with boycotts and marches.

The "Unity" myth is finally shattered.

Posted by: becca | April 12, 2008 12:03 AM

Obama blew it here, Obama supporters can try and twist this, spin it, smooth it over all they want but sorry. Here in PA, we don't cling to our religion just because of economics or hard times and we may be bitter when jobs are scarce but we don't turn into gun totin' racists. The gun owners here don't cling to their guns, most of them are hunters same as my family. He said we were anti-immigrant, I don't know anyone here who's anti-immigrant or has ever made ill remarks about immigrants. America is made up of immigrants, if he's referring to "illegal" immigrants, which he failed to specify, then he better check with the rest of America, it's not just people in small Midwestern Towns, who don't have jobs, that speak out against illegal immigration.

Posted by: JenC PennsylvaniaProud | April 12, 2008 12:02 AM

Hillary is proving she is out of touch with ordinary Americans and so is McCain, at least we already knew McCain was out of touch as 3 months ago he was seeing nothing wrong with the US economy.

Obama, please kick these donkeys out of office, we're gonna help ya.

Posted by: David | April 12, 2008 12:02 AM

That McCain is clueless is really not subject to debate.
As for Obama's remarks, someone needs to remind Clinton that the truth will remain the truth under any attack. It's about time someone who has the stage spoke out for those "few" of us small town folks who didn't make 109 mil. Out of touch????
Wait till the GOP. under the leadership of Clueless McCain lose
40-42 states in Nov. McCain thinks people are really happy and that Washington has served us well over the past 8 years. We like seeing Bush pardon his criminal pals, allow Oil to go to 108.00 a barrel let jobs go to China so the exects cam make 50 million bonuses......Anyone who thinks people aren't Pi-- off
must have been out of the country for 8 years...........duh

Posted by: billy 7 | April 12, 2008 12:02 AM

Once again, Clinton and Mccain try to treat the American Public like children and Obama turns it around and says, "whose out of touch?" Both Clinton and McCain have been in Washington for years and done nothing while these small towns in America, and the industrial jobs that supported them, disappeared. Gays in the Military, Abortion, "Morality" is a distraction the politicians use to distract voters. While you were distracted, the Bushes bankrupted the country and the tore up the Constitution. Whose got healthcare and jobs now?

Posted by: thebob.bob | April 12, 2008 12:02 AM

I am so saddened by the responses on this comments' board. You would think that Hillary Clinton's vote for the war in Iraq was the only issue. There are many other issues. She's already said that she's sorry for voting for the war. Isn't that enough? So, she voted for the war, so did many others. Let's move on.

It is funny how idiots post comments and don't leave a name. This is the same point that has been made throughout this campaign. Just face your predjudices so that you know who you really are.

To the following Post: Posted by: | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

Posted by: SlapStick, FL | April 12, 2008 12:01 AM

Shouldn't this rant be moderated or something?

Posted by: oy | April 12, 2008 12:01 AM

I live in a small town in Southern Illinois. Of course Barack Obama is the Jr. United States Senator from Illinois. I can't tell you how many times I have seen our Sr. United States Senator Dick Durbin stomping through Southern Illinois investigating different issues important to rural and small town Illinois. Barack Obama does not come to Southern Illinois. We are not populous. Most of us are farmers, laborers, teachers, technicians, real estate agents, etc. We are hardworking and penny pinching, and we do not donate a lot of money to politicians. We are God fearing and gun toting. We also have a very low crime rate! I guess we personify the type of people Senator Obama dislikes. Good! I can't wait for November!

Posted by: James | April 12, 2008 12:01 AM

Hiliary and McCain are liars. Why vote to the same!

Posted by: bernie | April 12, 2008 12:01 AM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 12, 2008 12:01 AM

Neocon?

No, we're progressives. And we're voting for the only progressive candidate running. The only candidate who ISN'T a part of the establishment.

I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore. And, oh yea, I'm bitter too.

The DLC can go shove it. The grassroots are taking the Democratic party back for Barack Obama.

Posted by: Jon | April 11, 2008 11:59 PM

Watching CNN and ALL pundits called it for what it is. Nonsense. And they agreed that Obama was right. People are bitter about what can't get done.

I know I am.

We've known since the gas lines and rationing ( I was there) in 1973 that we had to produce automobiles that did better on gas. We knew about solar power WAY back then.

We've known that our jobs were being sucked to other countries, Ross Perot called it the 'great sucking sound' we'd hear if NAFTA went through.

We've known that our small industrial towns ALL across America were HURTING.

So Barack visits those towns, hears them say they are bitter, really HEARS them, and he brings it to our attention, and Hillary
calls him an elitist who is looking down on our fellow Americans.

Baloney.

You can love America and be bitter that none of these problems have changed. People are still uninsured, cars are still guzzling gas, we're still dependent on foreign oil, we have little or no steel industry in PA and China makes all our products with lead free of charge.

Wake up people. This is just Hillary's camp sending a memo to McCain's camp to help distract Obama. Why?

Because she wanted to take the spotlight off of her laughing about a serious issue with the Colombian contribution and conflict of interest and off of Bill who lied about Bosnia AGAIN.

He's right, end of story. Will he do anything more than anyone else? Probably not , but at least he's being honest and sticking to his guns about it.

Posted by: BitterPaDemocrat | April 11, 2008 11:59 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:58 PM

It's not just bitter Pennsylvanians, its bitter Americans!!! People, I for one am sick and tired of getting screwed by the Washington establishment- Dem or Rep. I am sick of being told how they "feel" my pain in order to get my vote then getting nothing while they get their power. Obama is correct and right on the money when he says these things. God bless this great man, the next president of the USA!!!

Posted by: peachy | April 11, 2008 11:58 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:57 PM

I live in small town PA, and Obama hit it right on.

Clintons' did NAFTA and the Clintons opened up China - and Wal Mart did the rest.

Posted by: Blaine | April 11, 2008 11:57 PM

I know it's a lost cause but I'll keep supporting Hillary until the bitter end. I just not comfortable with a person of color as President. Even when it's obvious they're a better candidate than the one I support. Also I have no life. So this is what I do.

Posted by: svreader | April 11, 2008 11:57 PM

Yea definitely.

The candidate who lived in the White House for 8 years and has made $109 million in the past 8 is really in touch with the American people.

Hey Hillary - if you were really in touch with the American people, you'd know WE VOTED FOR BARACK.

Posted by: Dan | April 11, 2008 11:57 PM

Out of touch with the middle class? Both Senator Clinton and McCain are millionaires. Neither have a clue of what it is like to live it today’s economic as middle class American. I must say, Hilary had 35 years to show what she could do and McCain had about 80 and with that in mind, I can't support the same old thing.
On McCain, if you want an extension of Bush’s policies then he is your guy. He seems to be a nice man but this is not a popularity contest. I would take Hilary over McCain although she seems to have some integrity issues but it is really time to turn the page and give someone else with fresh eyes a chance to represent the American people. Please people vote for chance!

Posted by: Marie | April 11, 2008 11:57 PM

Listen, I'm bitter and frustrated with the economy, healthcare, and the Iraq war. If anyone thinks Americans are walking around with rose colored glasses, they are the ones with their heads in the clouds.

Posted by: LaShanda | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

Obama is the only candidate that has struggled growing up!!! And anyone who does not see that needs a reality history lesson.

Hillary is trying to keep the questions off of money that she and husband received from Gupta and they are not saying what the money was for!!! LETS TALK ABOUT HIDING ASSETS, MONEY, AND LIES HILL BILLS!!

Posted by: Jane-OHIO | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

Re: "I am mad as hell and I'm not gonna take it anymore either"

Ooo, another mad neocon. Gee, maybe you'll now leave your computer and enlist in the wars that you promote?

FAT CHANCE !

Posted by: Beth | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

O'Bomba is a Con Man-

LOL! Personally, I would compare voting for Obasama in November to;

Having gotten drunk, and getting "I'M COOL" Tattooed on your Forehead-And then waking up the next Morning, with a splitting head-ache while seeing it in the Mirror! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

Bttom line:

McCain and Hillary both voted to get us into war with Iraq.

Both support another war with Iran.

Both want to prove their manhood.

Posted by: Rick Shaw | April 11, 2008 11:56 PM

Hillary Clinton...Democrat or Republican:

You Judge.

Just a couple of hours ago, the Hillary Clinton campaign sent out an e-mail in which they quoted two Republican strategists.

UPDATE: The Clinton campaign emailed around harsh comments from two Republican pundits:

Grover Norquist: 'That sentence will lose him the election... He just announced to rural America: I don't like you.' "Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House. 'That sentence will lose him the election,' Norquist told ABC News. 'He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'" [abcnews.com, 4/11/08]

If multi-millionaire Hillary Clinton wants to live in a dream land and not believe people are fed up and bitter on the way Washington works, SHE is the one that is out of touch. Barack is just telling it like it is, because he is the ONLY candidate that relates to us.

Posted by: Kevin | April 11, 2008 11:55 PM

Wow, finally a politician saying something that actually resonates... funny how something George Carlin was saying in the 70's seems new and risque' in 2000, but there ya have it.

Posted by: David Cotter | April 11, 2008 11:55 PM

GOD BLESS PRESIDENT OBAMA WHO IS GOING TO CLEAN UP THE CLINTON BUSH MESSUPS.

Damn right we're bitter, and with good reason. Everything Obama said was TRUE. Clinton and McCain LIE to us. It's pretty simple, folks.

Posted by: Walden Greenwood | April 11, 2008 11:54 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!

WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:54 PM

psmith = small one

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:54 PM

When will Hillary and camp Attack learn that God does not like UGLY. I wonder have she stopped to think for one minute, why did one of her campaign centers go up in smoke in Indiana. God has a mysterious way of getting the attention of people but she is so heck bent on Attacking Obama with McCain that she does not realize how vile she has become.

Obama is the only candidate who knows what it means to struggle. Hillary's father was a conservative republican, so we already know what that means as to what type of values and morals that are embedded deep below!!!

Go Obama!! Go Obama!! 2008, 2012

Posted by: Carressa, FLORIDA | April 11, 2008 11:54 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:53 PM

I am mad as hell and I'm not gonna take it anymore either. The media makes it seem like Hillary is still in the race so that they can keep making all those advertising bucks... we should just move on to the general election. PA you have the chance to END this primary.. you feel the power?

Posted by: Joe | April 11, 2008 11:53 PM

John McCain talks to me like I'm his grandson

Hillary Clinton talks to me like I'm her son.

Barack Obama talks to me like I am his peer.

THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE NOT CHILDREN, AND WE DON'T DESERVE TO BE TREATED AS SUCH

I'm tired, fed up, mad as hell and bitter, and I'm not going to take it anymore.

I'm done with fear

I'm voting for change.

Posted by: Jon | April 11, 2008 11:53 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!
WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

If all you bots want change, CHANGE YOUR DIAPERS and GROW UP!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:53 PM

I been BITTER for 8 years, and im voting for CHANGE

Obama '08

Posted by: Sabrina | April 11, 2008 11:52 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!
WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

Just a couple of hours ago, the Hillary Clinton campaign sent out an e-mail in which they quoted two Republican strategists.

UPDATE: The Clinton campaign emailed around harsh comments from two Republican pundits:

Grover Norquist: 'That sentence will lose him the election... He just announced to rural America: I don't like you.' "Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House. 'That sentence will lose him the election,' Norquist told ABC News. 'He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'" [abcnews.com, 4/11/08]

Hillary is a liar and a crook. I am amazed that anyone can support her at all. Senator Obama will be our next President. Hillary will fade away and become another Teddy Kennedy.

Posted by: nighthawg | April 11, 2008 11:51 PM

HILLARY YOU B1TCH YOU LIED ABOUT SNIPER FIRE IN THE BALKANS, YOU FAT ANKLED WITCH YOU VOTED FOR WAR ON IRAQ.

YOU VOTED IN FAVOR OF MAKING IRANS MILITARY A TERRORIST FORCE OPENINGTHE WAY FOR BUSHIES TO ATTACK IRAN.

YOU ARE KNOWN AS PRESIDENT OF PUNJAB BECAUSE YOU GIVE AWAY SO MANY H1B VISAS TO INDIANS.

YOU ARE ALL FOR MORE AID TO ISRAEL BECAUSE YOUR LOYAL SUPPORTERS ARE PRO ISRAEL NOT PRO USA.

Posted by: Rick Shaw | April 11, 2008 11:51 PM

Bitter? Damn right we are bitter!! Obama tells us exactly what we know. It's painful to hear it, its painful to see us as we are. It's got to start some where we have to face this to move forward.

Posted by: EdK of PA | April 11, 2008 11:50 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!
WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: MAD AS HELL | April 11, 2008 11:50 PM

I am bitter, and I am voting for CHANGE

Obama08!

Posted by: Solar | April 11, 2008 11:50 PM

.

PRESIDENT OBAMA

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:50 PM

I am bitter, and I am voting for CHANGE

The establishment in our government has SCREWED me.

Time to get back to serving the people.

Posted by: Matt | April 11, 2008 11:49 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

You lying, corrupt, empty suit!
WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET OFF DISRESPECTING SMALL TOWN AMERICA??

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:49 PM

As usual, BHO turns some HRC manufactured "adversity" into a realistic, adult conversation about the very issues that define this election. Bravo, BHO! It appears from this link to the "first read" about this non-issue that people are well aware how this is NOT condescension, as HRC would have us believe, but in fact it is truth and integrity on the part of BHO. People are on to you, Hillary...

To be people who go on a about the war; what have you done since Bush went into Iraq? Have you demonstrated? have you attended peace vigils?, have you written your congressman/woman? If the answer is no then please shut-up. Nothing happens in a vacuum. Instead of waiting for a Moses (Obama) to show you the promised land get out there and make your voices heard. Many of the Anti-NAFTA white color workers looked down their noses and denigrated unions until they saw their cushy high paying jobs go to India and China; now all of a sudden they hate NAFTA but for most it was OK because they thought it just affected the low-paid workers. Some people just want to be lead but all leaders eventually disappoint and Obama is no exception. He won't pull all the troops out of Iraq and he won't scuttle NATFA. The reason being is that he never mentions that one group that he needs to get things done,the Congress except to also denigrate them. You can bet any amount of money that the Republicans won't be swayed by his Svengali oratory or rope tricks. But dream on! The higher you climb the further you
fall!

Things are really getting hot when gay people start getting attacked on here and out of context at that.

Posted by: jwalker | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

Obama is very popular with people who desperately want to believe in something, but don't want to put in any effort to figure out what it should be.

Obama is like that really interesting resturant your friends invited you to where the prices were really expensive, and place looked really cool, but the food tasted horrible and you got sick for a week.

Obama is like that hooker you almost made the mistake of going with, but suddenly realized had a really big adams apple for a girl.

Obama is like the car you almost bought, until you found out that east germany wasn't the right one for cars.

Obama is like a cute cat.

With a really bad case of rabies.

Obama is like every crazy idea that sounded good at the time, but you wound up hating yourself for the rest of your life for doing.

Voting for Obama is like dropping acid.

Right before you strap in for your first solo jet flight.

Voting for Obama is like skydiving without a parachute.

Its a once in a lifetime experience you'll be glad you missed.

Posted by: Obama is a con man | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

What's this crap about him having an ex-terrorist in his campaign???
What is that? Is that true? I can't trust the media to tell me because they have a hard time doing any in depth reporting on Obama.

Posted by: micha | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

What's beautiful about this is that Obama is speaking directly to the people -- he's going right over the heads of the media, the spinners from the McCain and Clinton campaigns, even the omnipresent copy/paste comment spammers to talk to us Americans.

I was worried about this earlier tonight -- not what he actually said, but how Fox and friends were going to distort it. Now, not so much. Obama doesn't fear these clowns. Neither will I.

This country is better than that. Thank God there's a candidate that knows that.

Posted by: papercutswcni | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

Why is the voters above 35 flocking to Clinton? Cause they stick to what they know, who they know. They are so naieve to even consider what Obama is trying to convey to them, rather stick to someone who hasn't done a damn thing. Clinton would rather backpedal on Florida and Michigan on reinstating those delegates she agreed to write off for disobeying rules. She would rather manipulate Obama's pledged delegates toward her cause she does not believe in 'pledged'. Her canidacy is dead in the water and I hope Pennsylvanians will drive it into her head. Obama has the votes, Obama has the delegates, Obama doesn't need the die-hard-for-power Clinton to destroy the democratic party for warmonger McCain.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

I actually AM bitter, and I am voting for change.

This man speaks the truth.

Posted by: Amy | April 11, 2008 11:48 PM

BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA

Posted by: psmith | April 11, 2008 11:47 PM

Give it up Hillary, your right wing tactics are not going to work.... OBAMA Nailed it, people are angry because of the Jobs Bill Clintons NAFTA and Bushs stupid wars and outsourcing gave away.

Walmart became the largest corporation under the Clintons and Bushies, wonder why?

Where did American jobs go?

Shut the F up Hillary, you just attack for the sake of attacking, you have nothing here.

Posted by: Rick Shaw | April 11, 2008 11:47 PM

The Republicans had their chance to choose an awful president, twice.

Now, it appears as though the Democrats will have their opportunity to do the same in the form of Barack Obama.

It's the slow motion train wreck of American politics. Amazing.

I found Obama condescending long before the "bitter" remark. Amazing but not surprising coming from this fraud who exorts us to engage in a "dialog on race" while hauling his own children down to a racist freak show every Sunday.

I couldn't take him seriously even if I wanted to; I don't.

Fortunately for Obama, there's an entire generation of half-educated young Americans coming up, who can vote, who truly believe that "playing well with others" is the ultimate biopsychosocialspiritopolitical value.

I sincerely hope that the good Senator from Illinois has merely stumbled into their goodwill and is not, in fact, intelligent enough to have proactively sought it out. If he is that intelligent then we're all in deep trouble.

Michael

Posted by: Michael | April 11, 2008 11:47 PM

Well, I am bitter and angry, I lost my job and it is not going to be replaced. I am a college graduate, can you imagine those who are not college educated, what options do they have. Yes I am bitter and Barack will speak to the truth.

Posted by: Max | April 11, 2008 11:47 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:47 PM

Hillary Clinton...Democrat or Republican:

You Judge.

Just a couple of hours ago, the Hillary Clinton campaign sent out an e-mail in which they quoted two Republican strategists.

UPDATE: The Clinton campaign emailed around harsh comments from two Republican pundits:

Grover Norquist: 'That sentence will lose him the election... He just announced to rural America: I don't like you.' "Grover Norquist, the anti-tax activist who leads an influential weekly meeting of conservatives, went as far as to argue that Obama's line would cost Democrats the White House. 'That sentence will lose him the election,' Norquist told ABC News. 'He just announced to rural America: 'I don't like you.'" [abcnews.com, 4/11/08]

If people actually listened to him and understood what he was saying, there wouldn't be all these accusations of him being out of touch. it's all "politics as usual."

Posted by: Fact Checker | April 11, 2008 11:46 PM

Obama does speak my point of view I am bitter and angry about how the little guy keeps getting shafted. When he stated people are bitter truer words have never been spoken. I believe many of the american people are bitter and frustrated when we look at job losses, mortgage forclosures, skyrocketing gas prices, and no one in government seems to care. The Bush administration does care about rising fuel costs as Bush his family and cronies make out with big bucks. We have a govenor running the white house robbing our people blind. I say govenor because that is the only legal office he has been elected. The american people need to stand up to the bully on the block. The bully being our own government. I thought we learned in school government of the people by the people and for the people. But maybe it is true you can't believe everything you hear. The government is employed by us we tell them what to do and we need to get back to running our government. As long as we keep letting things go the way they are we are going to keep getting what we have been getting. SCREWED. Obama I pray you are the next president. Clinton and the word truth should not be used in the same sentence.

Posted by: Tom | April 11, 2008 11:46 PM

ry --

"Chinaman" to an Asian is like using the "N" word to an African American.

Get It?

Its not a small thing.

Try to be less of a bigot, ok?

Posted by: Qui Chang Kane | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

The guy is a tool and just like any other politician. He is just selling you the snake oil in a bottle with a new label.

Bitter? Me bitter?
Since the 1970's, we have had promises from Washington that we need a comprehensive energy program and fuel alternatives. With prices on the way to $4/gallon, we have two oil men in the white house and still more talk.

Bitter? Me bitter?
For the past 20 years we've heard that Social Security needs an overhaul and could be bankrupt by 2017. It was a central part of the 2000 campaign. Remember lock box? Anything fixed?

Bitter? Me bitter?
Since the 1980's, we've been talking about job security, protecting pension funds, better wages. Now we worry about job shipping oversees. Has anything changed? Millions go to CEO's who bankrupt their companies.

Bitter? Me bitter?
New worries: our security, the cost of a war we don't want to be in (costing billion a month), immigration reform. And they continue, blah, blah, blah go the pols.

Sign me,

Bitter but Hopeful

Posted by: Corinne | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war

NEOCONS FOR HILLARY !

war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

I am bitter, and I am voting for CHANGE

Posted by: Seth | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

mark penn is still with the camp after trying to broker the Colombian trade agreement, is that a leadership that stands for the people in Pa, indiana & elsewhere? is n't all those things are true for people who lost their job for countries, companies and group like the one lead by mark penn and charlie black? it's tough for anyone to tell the truth, it might cost 'em a fortune but to lie 'bout yr' trip to Tuzla, Bosnia is priceless.

Posted by: moses | April 11, 2008 11:45 PM

All haters need to find hope and positivity. Let go of your fear and hate. They only hurt you. Accept others who are different and value them for that reason. Think the best of others instead of assuming the worst.

It reminds me of a story about a caucus where a husband and wife went together, one for Obama and one for Clinton. The husband went over to the Clinton folks and the wife to Obama's. After a little while the husband came back and listened to the Obama supporters. He decided to support Obama.

The reason? He said that the Clinton people were very negative and talked so spitefully about others. Whereas the Obama people were so positive and upbeat...

What is that saying, something like you can judge a tree by the fruit it bears... Clinton supporters are so very negative that they remind me of how unpleasant Hillary seems at times. I guess like attracts like.

Posted by: Mike in Sac | April 11, 2008 11:44 PM

It may seem off topic, but the constant posting of Hillary Clinton voted for the war is really the only point that needs to be made.

The Iraq war is the most egregious foreign policy blunder in decades and has ruined countless lives. Why any self-respecting Democrat would vote for someone who not only voted for the war, but served as a cheerleader until announcing her run for presidency is way beyond me.

I know that deep down these folks know they are wrong to support such a candidate because it means overlooking such a shameful moment in American history. So they try to stir up the pot over nonsense to ease their conscience.

Posted by: Ryah | April 11, 2008 11:44 PM

It doesn't surprise me one bit that McCain and Clinton don't get just how fed up we are with politics as usual. They grasping at straws and trying to turn the tide. I am so happy Obama did not back down. It shows he really does get just how fed up we are. For the people. By the people. Well, first you have to listen to the people.
YES WE CAN!

Posted by: Kathleen | April 11, 2008 11:44 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:44 PM

I am bitter and I am voting for CHANGE.

Posted by: Jon | April 11, 2008 11:44 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN A-HOLES:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

We don't need an ANTI-AMERICAN president!!!

Go back to INDONESIA, OBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:43 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:43 PM

Who care if he lies..come he is black we owe him.

OBAMA 08!

Posted by: Nicky | April 11, 2008 11:43 PM

I find ignorance in the statements made by those who criticize someone for speaking well. I can only imagine what you have to say about people who use statements such as "we arrived under heavy gunfire" or "I did not have sex with that woman ms. Lewinski". However when Obama tells the truth we somehow are not ready to hear it or pick it apart and try to turn it around. People hear what they want instead of actually listening. If we become better listeners then we can better understand our politics. Imagine if you would have been a better listener growing up.....how different life could be for you. Start listening people.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:43 PM

There's nothing wrong with being angry, especially since people have lost jobs, homes and the economy is so gloomy. Promises have been made in the past and have not been fulfilled.
What are people to do?

Posted by: EJ | April 11, 2008 11:43 PM

Obama did'nt vote for ther war because he was not a Senator yet. But he probably would have just voted "present" like every other tough decision he had to vote on.
Get a grip people this guy will get Mccain elected in a heartbeat.

NOBAMA!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:42 PM

Laura B. is a good running mate for Hillary C.

Posted by: Hill-Laura 08 | April 11, 2008 11:42 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:42 PM

How about re-reading Obama's comment? "...it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

Does this mean that Obama instead advocates that they release their bitterness and

a) give up their guns,

b) give up their religion,

c) embrace illegal immigration, and

d) embrace free trade?

I thought he was recently campaigning to say he wasn't really against guns as he was previously. And does he really see religion only for bitterness? Plus, does this mean he now supports NAFTA?

Matthew
TheProblemWithObama.com

Posted by: Matthew Weaver | April 11, 2008 11:41 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: ANTI-AMERICAN OBAMA | April 11, 2008 11:40 PM

Hillary Clinton likes to lie.

Bill Clinton lies looking straight into camera.

John McCain is out of touch with America.

John McCain seems to live in the 1970s still.

Wake up Hill-John! Hill, give back your easy money of 109 Million for the working class PA folks. John, stop lying. You and Bush are going to eat up America Middle Class with your corporate and rich backers.

You, John, WANT TO FORM A GOVERNMENT BY THE LOBBYISTS, OF THE LOBBYISTS, AND FOR THE LOBBYISTS.

Heck no, Lobbyists!!

Posted by: Small town PA | April 11, 2008 11:40 PM

I'm bitter! I'm as mad as hell and I'm not gonna take it anymore. The Clintons just want to sell the presidency for another 109 million before their momentum and grasp of the world we live in totally ceases to exist. They are now washed up hacks and we can't let them back in the white house! We will be fools in the history books if we re-elect Billary Clinton for a third term. Mark my words.... the future will look at us for being the brainwashed fools we are... MUST VOTE FOR SAME TWO FAMILIES... NO OTHER CHOICE... Laura Bush/Billary Clinton 08!

Posted by: Concerned Mother | April 11, 2008 11:40 PM

Obama and his wife have such disdain for the American public. They just drip it with every thing they "misspeak".
When will it be enough for people to get it.

Keep buying the hype people...oops I meant hope!

Hillary '08

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:40 PM

This is not about respecting America? This is about REALITY!. Small time Americans are hardworking and all that, but it gets to a point when you become angry at the situation and therefore bitter. You look for a decent job everywhere and there's none. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what Obama said.

Posted by: Bob | April 11, 2008 11:40 PM

war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war

NEOCONS FOR HILLARY !

war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:39 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:39 PM

I AM BITTER about our "leadership"

Posted by: John | April 11, 2008 11:39 PM

Sorry, I am bitter and need to clean my guns while reading the bible to my youngans for the next 3 hours, so I don't have time to waste blogging.

Posted by: skinsfan1978 | April 11, 2008 11:38 PM

$100 Million per day in Iraq...

Could anyone use say $25,000 for a College Loan? Not anymore...

Posted by: John | April 11, 2008 11:38 PM

ANTI-AMERICAN:

REV. WRIGHT

REZKO

AYERS

REV. MEEKS

OBAMA

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:38 PM

Obama out of touch? Not so for the Clintons. Rather they have a great deal of touch, about 109 million dollars or so in the past 8 years. Sounds pretty elitist to me. As for McCain, he will keep us in Iraq to complete the national bankruptcy that the worst president ever has started. Of the three candidates I will go with the honest realist, Obama.

Posted by: Stan | April 11, 2008 11:38 PM

Barack Obama is the only candidate remaining to say anything intelligent and in depth about what is going on in small town America. Hillary Clinton gives a few sound bites to pretend she is the champion of the working class. John McCain takes three tries just to come up with a housing crisis plan.

We should be so lucky as to have such a highly intelligent president who will not be afraid to talk to the country as adults.

You go into these small towns in Pennsylvania and, like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not.
And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy toward people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:37 PM

Obama out of touch? Not so for the Clintons. Rather they have a great deal of touch, about 109 million dollars or so in the past 8 years. Sounds pretty elitist to me. As for McCain, he will keep us in Iraq to complete the national bankruptcy that the worst president ever has started. Of the three candidates I will go with the honest realist, Obama.

Posted by: Stan | April 11, 2008 11:36 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: KISS MINE OBAMA | April 11, 2008 11:36 PM

chrisNbama- There is much more Damning evidence about Obasama's true Nature.

Of the $60,000+ He spent on Charity, ALL of it was Spent on Charities for "Blacks, and the "Black" Community.

I am talking about his choice of a "Church", United NEGRO College Fund, Africa CARE, and his Wife's Black Dance group.

I don't care if it was a Chinese supporting fellow Chinese, German supporting Germans, Mexican Supporting only fellow Mexicans;

I Call it RACISM. And I, would never allow any RACIST my support for the Presidency! :-(

FYI-Me, I'd be inclined to give at least Half of my Charity to the Salvation Army and The American Red Cross! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 11:36 PM

Whoa, we are heading into the last 10-11 days before Pennsylvania votes. Things are going to get very heated. Let's just hope everybody can be real, as real, as authentic, as courageous, as up front, as capable, competent, articulate, wise.

Let's hope.

Posted by: Gaias Child | April 11, 2008 11:35 PM

I hate posts and everyone in them. They are of the misconception that their opinion means something and that everyone else should agree with it. To all of you: "Shut up stupid!" Obama is the best candidate! Hillary has mismanaged her campaign. McCain has mismanaged his campaign. And the only thing you can find on Obama is some bull... Everyone on here... go get a life... go find a girlfriend (men only) or boyfriend (women only)and go do some grown stuff instead of whining on here like some little homos about Obama.

Posted by: My Business | April 11, 2008 11:35 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:35 PM

$100 Million dollars a day in IRAQ

Could any community use say $5,000 in their community for police or fire departments?

Posted by: John | April 11, 2008 11:35 PM

.

NEOCONS FOR HILLARY !

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:34 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:34 PM

It's amusing that two candidates who are not and never have been middle class proclaim themselves so insulted on behalf of the middle class because of a comment from Obama, the one candidate who isn't himself rich.

And the Republican party chimes in, to come to the defense of the middle class? Weren't they the guys who want to make Bush's tax robberies on behalf of the very wealthy permanent?

Posted by: Helen | April 11, 2008 11:34 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT, FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:33 PM

$100 million dollars per day in Iraq...could anyone use some of this in their schools?

Posted by: John | April 11, 2008 11:33 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:32 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT,
FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

GUESS WHAT?!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:32 PM

Your GOD DAMNED right I'm pissed off. I've worked and saved all my life to have my money forced into the stock market by the Fed's artificially low interest rates, and now the dollar falling like a lead balloon. There is a game being played, and I am losing.

Posted by: Kyle | April 11, 2008 11:32 PM

THE CORRUPT, RACIST, ELITIST, EMPTY SUIT,
FLIM-FLAM MAN!!!

AMERICA DOES NOT LIKE BEING DISRESPECTED!!

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:31 PM

I don't see Obama looking down on small towns. No you need to be poor and frustrated without a job to really understand what he is saying. This is the truth and the reality on the ground.

Posted by: Steve | April 11, 2008 11:31 PM

I'm glad to see he didn't back down, since he nailed the truth the FIRST time out.

Small town America IS pissed off, but they've had a bad habit of voting for politicians whose policies only going increase their troubles, as long as those politicians can find a few convenient stalking horses like gay marriage or affirmative action to rile them up. A lesser man would have said "Jeezus, what the f___ is WRONG with these people?", but Obama takes the time to put their anger into context and point a spotlight on the fact that their anger is driving them act in ways that are contrary to their own best interest.

Sorry if that stings them, but that's the situation. Embrace the truth folks, it has an amazing freeing power to clear your head once you do.

Posted by: Marcus3 | April 11, 2008 11:31 PM

Damn straight I'm bitter. I'm tired of politicians prattling '911-911' while the funnel no-bid contracts to their defense contractor buddies. I'm tired of hearing about how hard it is to prevent the corruption/loss of billions going to Iraq when we can't afford to reduce class size for our kids - can't afford to make sure each kid has their own text books - make teacher's scrimp and pay out of their own pocket to cover office supplies to teach OUR CHILDREN.

I'm just plain tired of washington.

Posted by: citizenVoter | April 11, 2008 11:30 PM

1000000 dead
4000 dead
189,000,000 million made by US reps defense stocks
(O) attempts made by reps to impeach
15,000,000 value of pelosi's husband's defensed contract
a civilization destroyed
900 lies
1000 cia reporters
1 hero translator Sibel Edmonds gagged
1 senator Paul Wellstone assassinated
5 Mossad agents dancing
$50,000,000 for Aschcroft
3.5 billion for silverstein
number US concentration camps built by halliburton?
March 20 date Admiral Fallon "resigned"
(4) number of black boxes unrecovered
april-7 - april 11 Capt Eric H. May expects final false flag
closer to truth closer to WWW III
3 total number of skyscrapers to collapse due to "fire" 911
total number of skyscrapers to collapse before or since 0
80 minutes time took for 9-11 scramble
10 minutes time took to scramble golfer
percent of taxes to service war 33
1 und sec.state Grossman sells nuclear secrets to Turks
number of ipso facto laws re: selling turks nuc. secrets? 1
number of americans watching nation burn?

This is Hillary Clinton: Whitewater, Travelgate, Monica Lewinsky and impeachment, renting out the Lincoln bedroom, the loss of the Rose Law Firm billing records for nearly 2 years until they were miraculously found in the White House living quarters, removing files from Vince Foster's office following his suicide and before investigators could get there. Her stalling to release her earmark requests from her time in the Senate, as well as her Clinton library donors. Her sell out apology to the African American community (for her campaigns racist comments) which came days too late. Her decline to return $170,000 in campaign contributions from individuals at International Profit Associates, or IPA accused of widespread sexual harassment, and whose CEO is a disbarred lawyer with a criminal record. Lets not forget her campaign eventually returned some $850,000 to Hong Kong businessman Norman Hsu who was found to be a fugitive in a 15-year old theft case. He was indicted for fraud related to his campaign contributions in 2007. Her failed inclusion and diplomacy with congress on her universal health care bid. Her subsequent surrender and alignment to the health care industry. Her disguise on NAFTA and all free trade agreements. Her conscious vote for war in Iraq. Her blatant flip flop on Florida and Michigan. Her repetitive lies about Bosnia. Her exaggerated foreign policy experience. Her dealing the race card better than Republicans could. Clinton photo and prayer breakfast with Rev Wright. Clinton photo with Rezko. Her failure to get the endorsement of close friend Bill Richardson. Her miserable failure to manage her own campaign. Her charlatan flip flop on pledged delegates and superdelegates by encouraging party elite to vote against the will of the people - "I believe strongly that in a democracy, we should respect the will of the people and to me, that means it's time to do away with the Electoral College and move to the popular election of our president." - Hillary Clinton in 2000

note: never address any "issues", instead smear him with any association: his pastor, someone who endorses him, his wife, his father,etc. always make racist commments (i.e. compare him to Jim Jones), put his middle name in capital letters...and MOST IMPORTANT repeat it over and over (check FoxNews for latest smear)

remember: Americans are stupid! (look how we got them in the Iraq war!)

if you repeat anything enough, they'll believe it.

then

SAY IF OBAMA IS NOMINATED, YOU WON'T VOTE DEMOCRATIC IN NOVEMBER

* note: this is generally true, but if Hillary is nominated, it doesn't matter who gets elected...you can vote for whomever you want....McCain is slightly better, but both are in our lobby's pocket, i.e. both Clinton and McCain will put America in our WARS

Why is Hillary spending so much time focusing on what Obama is saying instead of presenting her positions on issues? Everytime she points the finger at Obama, she has three pointing back at her from supporting programs and agreements from Bill's administration (many of which she now disagrees with)to her current campaign advisors. Stay focused Hillary...you have a big challenge in convincing America how much you now disagree with the many things that you once supported.

Posted by: Gilly | April 11, 2008 11:27 PM

Absolutely 11:19. I as a Catholic have attended John Hagee's slanted sermons but I am not going to completely rip the man. I have chosen to research the FULL context of Hagee's speech so that I am not inclined to be influenced by 30 second sound bytes from the media. The same applies for Wright's sermons. Do yourself a favor- listen to the WHOLE sermon, understand the WHOLE context of it while educating yourself on the history of black oppression and suppression in America. GO OBAMA!!!!!!

Posted by: peaches | April 11, 2008 11:26 PM

Clinton voted for the WAR!!!!!!!!
Just VOTES????

Posted by: Kee | April 11, 2008 11:26 PM

Make that "Temporarily" Changing names.

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 11:26 PM

Obama embraces his "attacks" and tells you what it is about and why his attackers are wrong...no one has ever done that. He is a punching bag right now for two formidable machines: an ex-President's wife and John McCain whom is the face of the RNC machine. I have to give him credit. I am a McCain guy myself...he can change the country...John

Posted by: John | April 11, 2008 11:25 PM

Two questions to Obama and his supporters:

1. If a white minister preached sermons to his congregation and had used the "N" word and used rhetoric and words similar to members of the KKK, would you support a Democratic presidential candidate who decided to continue to be a member of that congregation?

2. Would you support that candidate if, after knowing of or hearing those sermons, he or she still appointed that minister to serve on his or her "Religious Advisory Committee" of his or her presidential campaign?

Obama will have to answer these questions now or in in fall.

Obama won't have to answer these questions in the fall, because the only people who want the answers are those who'd never vote for him in the first place.

Posted by: ChrisNBama | April 11, 2008 11:25 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:25 PM

"This is an impressive crowd of the haves and have mores. Some people call you the elite, I call you my base."

That is arrogance.

And, yes, Hillary voted for the war and never apologized. As the mother of a disabled veteran, it's insulting.

Posted by: Tina | April 11, 2008 11:23 PM

Qui Chang Kane --

How about a comment on the issue, rather than a poke about a use of the word 'Chinaman'. It was used to describe a person in China. In context, I really don't see how it implied anything offensive.

Before you shared the fact that Chinaman is 'pretty' offensive to Asians, I most likely would have used the word. I highly doubt it would come down to '.. and see what they do to you?'

You simply prove the point - Perhaps we're the reason why politics is so polarizing. We can't even let someone express something in words that haven't been cleansed for public consumption.

Posted by: ry | April 11, 2008 11:23 PM

Please, the man knows what he is talking about. Leave it to the other 2 candidates to act like children, most Americans will agree with them. Why? Because most Americans act and think like children. Keeping thinking like children as this country fades to nothing. It is time for a change, and it starts with Americans mentalities.

Posted by: RAFU | April 11, 2008 11:21 PM

duh!

in a democratic primary, everyone is a bitter victim. Wait till the general election, this is more fodder for the 527's.

I think Hillary is right, most Americans are not "bitter". They might be a pissed of they do not have a job, but bitterness goes into your heart.

But I hope most americans would rather get a job than a hand out from Comrade Obama.

Posted by: mike | April 11, 2008 11:21 PM

LOL! There is so much Evil Lurking around Philly and Pittsburgh, The State is Temporally being Re-Named;

TRANSYLVANIA!

Break out the Garlic, Cruciforms, and Bolt the Doors against Polsters after Dark! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 11:21 PM

When reading the responses of BO supporters on this blog it's really easy to see why Stalin, Hitler and Mussolini were initially so successful during WWII. There seems to be an entire cadre of people who are genetically predisposed to being non-questioning followers. It would be funny if it wasn't scary. I use to think Republicans were the scary guys but you Obama freaks have really cleared that one up, you're way scarier. Totally SciFi.

Ditto the remark of the poster who stated that the people in PA should be grateful to Obama and company for explaining to the rest of us how they feel as act as they do. Now they can sleep at night knowing they're finally understood.

Posted by: jwalker | April 11, 2008 11:21 PM

Bravo! Bravo! to Obama!!! Yes, finally the real truth about small town America is out!!! We ARE bitter and we ARE frustrated about the broken, empty promises for the last 25 years!!! Go Obama!!! Go Obama!!!

Posted by: shyroses | April 11, 2008 11:21 PM

$2,000,000,000,000.00

Yeh, the Republicans tax the unborn $2,000,000,000,000.00 and I'm a little more than annoyed at the financial situation the no veto Bush put in place.

Now with Bush's chief financial advisor moving over to run the Fed.

There's a few of us more than annoyed.

Posted by: Scott | April 11, 2008 11:20 PM

Two questions to Obama and his supporters:

1. If a white minister preached sermons to his congregation and had used the "N" word and used rhetoric and words similar to members of the KKK, would you support a Democratic presidential candidate who decided to continue to be a member of that congregation?

2. Would you support that candidate if, after knowing of or hearing those sermons, he or she still appointed that minister to serve on his or her "Religious Advisory Committee" of his or her presidential campaign?

Obama will have to answer these questions now or in in fall.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:19 PM

Run the full transcript, read it, and you'll be hard pressed to find anything condescending or elitist in it. You might disagree with his view, but he wasn't insulting or pontificating. He was explaining his take on the skepticism in communities and people who have been screwed by the Bush Clinton dynasties. The only insults are from the two old grizzled battering rams, who pounced on a surgical excerpt in a hack hit job blog post, before bothering to read the transcript (their attack missives were posted on the internet before Huff Po posted the full excerpt...)I'm glad he fired back. Makes me think he just might be as tough as he is smart and idealistic. I really would like to cast one vote for president where I didn't have to hold my nose in the booth.

OBAMA: So, it depends on where you are, but I think it's fair to say that the places where we are going to have to do the most work are the places where people feel most cynical about government. The people are mis-appre...I think they're misunderstanding why the demographics in our, in this contest have broken out as they are. Because everybody just ascribes it to 'white working-class don't wanna work -- don't wanna vote for the black guy.' That's...there were intimations of that in an article in the Sunday New York Times today - kind of implies that it's sort of a race thing.

Here's how it is: in a lot of these communities in big industrial states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, people have been beaten down so long, and they feel so betrayed by government, and when they hear a pitch that is premised on not being cynical about government, then a part of them just doesn't buy it. And when it's delivered by -- it's true that when it's delivered by a 46-year-old black man named Barack Obama (laugher), then that adds another layer of skepticism (laughter).

But -- so the questions you're most likely to get about me, 'Well, what is this guy going to do for me? What's the concrete thing?' What they wanna hear is -- so, we'll give you talking points about what we're proposing -- close tax loopholes, roll back, you know, the tax cuts for the top 1 percent. Obama's gonna give tax breaks to middle-class folks and we're gonna provide health care for every American. So we'll go down a series of talking points.

But the truth is, is that, our challenge is to get people persuaded that we can make progress when there's not evidence of that in their daily lives. You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them. And they fell through the Clinton administration, and the Bush administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. So it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.

Um, now these are in some communities, you know. I think what you'll find is, is that people of every background -- there are gonna be a mix of people, you can go in the toughest neighborhoods, you know working-class lunch-pail folks, you'll find Obama enthusiasts. And you can go into places where you think I'd be very strong and people will just be skeptical. The important thing is that you show up and you're doing what you're doing.

Posted by: Irene in Mass. | April 11, 2008 11:18 PM

Do you consider Obama's remarks as "condescending" and "out of touch"?

"The government gives them the drugs, builds bigger prisons, passes a three-strike law and then wants us to sing 'God Bless America.' No, no, no, God damn America, that's in the Bible for killing innocent people."

Just Words?

"God damn America, that's in the Bible for killing innocent people ... God damn America for treating our citizens as less than human. God damn America for as long as she acts like she is God and she is supreme."

Just words?

"We bombed Hiroshima, we bombed Nagasaki, and we nuked far more than the thousands in New York and the Pentagon, and we never batted an eye."

Just words?

"We have supported state terrorism against the Palestinians and black South Africans, and now we are indignant because the stuff we have done overseas is now brought right back to our own front yards. America's chickens are coming home to roost."

Just words?

"We started the AIDS virus ... as a means of genocide against people of color."

The only probelm with Senator Obama's comment is that those sentiments he described are shared by a much wider constituents than those in small towns.

We all are angy and bitter and it is true that when the real issues are not going to be addressed, we do get sidetracked with non-issues.

Posted by: Gerum | April 11, 2008 11:16 PM

I dislike Obama intensely because when it suits him he swings from a scoundrel to a saint so effortlessly. This whole race issue is a perfect illustration of it.

The race row really started when Bill Clinton called Obama's Iraq stand a "fairy tale". Apparently this phrase "fairy tale" is racist in any context. Where was Obama's high flown pedantry when Bill was being cruelly turned into a racist over this?

Hillary tried to say that activists (such as MLK) require Presidents/legislators (LBJ) to convert policies into law. According to Obama this statement is tinged with racism. Where was Obama's contextualizing and preaching for forbearance then?

Another one of his spiritual advisors from Harvard writes an op-ed saying the 3am ad is racist! For the first time in my life I saw even Obama supporters uncomfortably shrugging off that claim. Did we hear anything from Obama? Any post-racial calls?

Geraldine Ferraro at worst was crudely trying to say that Obama wouldn't have come this far in the race without 80-90% of the African-American vote. Perhaps an imprudent statement but it was made in a paid speech in an insignificant forum and would hardly have been noticed if Obama's camp had not pushed it. She was merely one of Hillary's hilariously big finance team. Where was Obama's mature outlook towards race then? What was especially galling was Obama, in his dysfunctional union speech, trying to equate Wright's hateful, anti-American speech with Ferraro's remarks! Whoa! This guy is positively reptilian. I mean, chameleons have more consistency than this multi-faceted slickster. To compare the hate speech of a mentor/spiritual advisor of 20 years with mildly insensitive remarks of a woman tangentially connected to Hillary's campaign is really something. And he wanted Ferraro to resign straight-away. He came with hatchets at her. Look at the cold-blooded nature of people like David Axelrod who sought and got Ferraro's support several times in the past for minority candidates and is known to be her friend. No benefit of doubt for a friend. No respect for a former democratic vice-presidential nominee.

That Obama's candidacy has been sustained by "we know what is good for you" attitude of mainstream press. That such intellectuals should be so naive is what is galls me. Did they really think a person who ginned up a real estate deal with a top-notch crook to add a 10 square foot of land to a $1.5 million dollar home is of any remarkable probity? How ding-dong in the head do you have to be to expect that such a person wouldn't be upto all sorts of other crookery?

And, of course, so it has been the last few weeks. All kinds of crookery. He relentlessly beats up Hillary for being supportive of NAFTA while his top economic aide comforts Canada - ah, don't worry, it's all campaign rhetoric. Approaching Iowa, he viciously beats up Hillary for not having a firm Iraq withdrawal date, for suggesting that such a date is hard to predict not knowing what she would inherit as president. Meanwhile, his top foreign-policy aide tells another ally that Obama wouldn't be relying on some withdrawal plan he has for the campaign trail!

I mean, in terms of crookery, Nixon, Rezko, Norman Hsu have nothing on this guy.

What is truly remarkable is the incapacity of those stupid "latte liberals" to get down from their Ivory Tower of wine and pastries and take some responsibility here. It is time, poets and star-gazers, to put aside sentimentalizing, and give us a hand as we throw this guy overboard. There is a policy on this ship, folks. No rats allowed. Put Hillary down, she's not the one and give us a hand over here.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:16 PM

I think Hillary and Mccain will be sorry they brought this up. Obama will definitely use this to further burnish his image as the man of the people, someone who share their pain and who is ready to help them.

Posted by: Terry K | April 11, 2008 11:16 PM

HILLARY IS A LIAR!!! SHE VOTED FOR THE WAR!!! HER CAMPAIGN IS CRUMBLING AND SHE IS DESPERATE!!! SHE IS GOING TO LOSE!!! HA HA HA!!!

Posted by: peachy | April 11, 2008 11:16 PM

.

I CAN THINK OF 109 MILLION REASONS I WOULD NOT CONTRIBUTE TO HILLARY CLINTON!

.

Posted by: B.E. | April 11, 2008 11:15 PM

I just knew somewhere in his response to this Obama would throw in his favorite catch word "Change" oh so predictable, like a broken record.

Posted by: Stephen | April 11, 2008 11:14 PM

Obama isn't condescending to religious, rural voters who believe in the second amendment. He is actually trying to help SOLVE the problems faced in some small rural communities who have lost jobs. He believes they vote for people whose policies HURT THEM over and over again. He's actually empathizing with them, not insulting them. Why would he condescend to religious voters when he is, himself, a religious man. And his comments on gun ownership earlier this year make it pretty clear he's anything but condescending:

"We should be able to combine respect for those traditions [the second amendment] with our concern for kids who are being shot down. This is a classic example of us just applying some common sense, just being reasonable, right? And reasonable would say that lawful gun owners - I respect the Second Amendment. I think lawful gun owners should be able to hunt, be sportsmen, protect their families.

"And by the way, Michelle, my wife, she was traveling up, I think, in eastern Iowa, she was driving through this nice, beautiful area, going through all this farmland and hills and rivers and she said 'Boy, it's really pretty up here,' but she said, 'But you know, I can see why if I was living out here, I'd want a gun. Because, you know, 911 is going to take some time before somebody responds. You know what I mean? You know, it's like five miles between every house.'

"So the point is, though, we should be able to do that, and we should be able to enforce laws that keep guns off the streets in inner cities because some unscrupulous gun dealer is, you know, letting somebody load up a van with a bunch of cheap handguns or sawed-off shotguns and dumping them and selling them for a profit in the streets."

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:13 PM

Hang on - Obama should have apologized? People need a president who respects them? You mean the kind of apology that Hillary should have given for continuing to "misspeak" about sniper fire in Bosnia? You mean respect, like what she didn't do when you insulted the intelligence of voters everywhere by saying the Bosnia "slip" was a result of too little sleep? Give me a break.

Posted by: epinchicago | April 11, 2008 11:12 PM

Obama said he was for a single payer health system, but now opposes plans that cover every American.

He promised to repeal the Patriot Act, but then voted to extend it.

He promised to normalize relations with Cuba, but flip-flopped when he started running for president.

He rails against NAFTA in Ohio while his top economic advisor assures the Canadians his rhetoric is just "political positioning."

He promises to opt in to public financing if the GOP nominee does, but then breaks that pledge in real time.

He promises to withdraw from Iraq within 16 months, and now his top foreign policy adviser says that he's not relying on the plan.

At first he knew of no controversial remarks from his pastor. Then he knew it. Then he knew some but not others.

At first the "union" that brought him into this world was caused by the bridge crossing/civil rights movement in Selma which, by the way, actually happened 5 years afterwards. Long after he was born.

He flattered Kennedys by crediting them for funding his father's arrival to US when the Kennedys had nothing to do with it.

Don't even get me going over the questionnaires he has filled indicating positions he has completely contradicted during this campaign cycle.

Obama claims he doesn't take money from lobbyists. Semantics. Because about HALF of his donations come from big donors and "bundlers" who in terms of influence on campaign and favors they expect in return are not much different from lobbyists. His bundlers include partners from 18 top law firms, 21 Wall Street executives and power brokers from Fortune 500 companies. Use of bundlers was perfected by George W. Bush who established a hierarchy of "Rangers" and "Pioneers" to monitor their progress.

List keeps on growing.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:12 PM

This just in:
Obama is putting together the backdrop for his November aspirations. 5 yellow people, 2 brown people, 6 white people, 3 gray people, 10 green people and 50 million dumb people required.

Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 11:11 PM

The Obama activists, that is, the extreme left wing of the party (MoveOn, Democracy for America, DailyKos, Keith Olbermann etc) are threatening to do to the Democratic Party what they did to us in the Connecticut Senate race. They got Ned Lamont to beat Lieberman in the primaries only to see the former get wiped out in the real race. Now, since I don't care much for Lieberman I tought that was rather cute. Big mistake. I had no idea how malicious these guys are. Their sunny fronts like Politico and MSNBC are trying to shut Hillary down. I say to all those who have been penalized for fighting tough battles. To all those who have paid their dues only to see a cute, ambitious upstart stroll in and steal the show. To all those who favor substance over style. To all those who have had to work so hard only to see the tall and young and good-looking get the credit. To all those who are sick of seeing hard earned experience get wiped out by "charisma". To all of you: MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO HILLARY RIGHT NOW.

Obama is a scumbag and he's showing his true colors: The red and yellow of communism.

Posted by: dave | April 11, 2008 11:07 PM

ry --

The term "Chinaman" is pretty offensive to asians.

Why don't you try saying it to one of them and see what they do to you?

Posted by: Qui Chang Kane | April 11, 2008 11:06 PM

.

HILLARY CLINTON VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 11:06 PM

It often annoys me to read the comments here at the Washington Post. Theres a mix of "this person is a crook", "GO [Insert Politician's Name] '08!", and people who don't even care what the article is about. I must admit that the first part of this comment is off topic, but I feel the point is worth making. Few people see that posting comments is a means of conversing with other individuals about a topic and instead continue on their course of one-track thinking. Slow down for a minute and actually think about what you're saying.

On this issue, I think it is childish to think that a person cannot simply observe a situation and use the words that best describe it, including 'bitter'. If you lost your job to a Chinaman or a Mexican who can do the same work as you for pennies on the dollar, you would be bitter, too. Losing a job is one thing. But policy that makes a persons skill-set worthless is maddening.

Perhaps we're the reason why politics is so polarizing. We can't even let someone express something in words that haven't been cleansed for public consumption.

Posted by: ry | April 11, 2008 11:04 PM

Those Typical Bitter White People;

Keeping all the Brothers down! ;~)

Hey Obasama! I'm Mad. Not Bitter!

Harboring Resentment is something Petty People do. If anyone has not caught on yet-I BITE!

Then I feel Much Better! Until someone makes me mad AGAIN! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 11:02 PM

Just like Rev Wright, where OBama's spinneers tried to say it was about one sermon rather than 20 years, Obama's spinners are saying that his gaff was about "bitterness" rather than about guns and religion.

Obama is kicking ass way beyond the call of duty. The man is fighting a three front war against Hillary, Bill and McCain and he's still kicking some serious butt. This is the first politican in my lifetime that I can't wait to vote for. He'll be a great president.
OBAMA 08!

Posted by: Lumi | April 11, 2008 10:56 PM

Further confusion: Exactly when was Barack Obama dishonest?

Even further confusion: Why does calling the other side's candidate names help your cause? I'm especially confused by this point from the Obama supporters who's candidate claims to be above such tactics.

Posted by: John Dewey | April 11, 2008 10:55 PM

.

President Obama.

get used to it folks, it's happening

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:54 PM

The bitter small town people may cling to their intelligence now and show that they are not fooled by this slick and dishonest fact twister.

Posted by: dunkindonutsindependent | April 11, 2008 10:51 PM

what's wrong with sayting someone's bitter esp when the person has reason to be bitter can we move on?

Posted by: jmh | April 11, 2008 10:51 PM

I have a hard time taking Hillary Wal-Mart Clinton seriously on the subject of small-town travails. McCain? The guy's senile, and a bit unhinged, and near the bottom of his class at Navy. That's a dangerous combo.

Posted by: Tom | April 11, 2008 10:49 PM

what terrible reporting. Why don't you blog the full transcript. Be a real reporter. What you're paid to do.

Posted by: Gail | April 11, 2008 10:47 PM

Statement: In general, people in working class American don't think the government can fix their problems.

Event: Obama states they are bitter and upset about this and are having a hard time buying what he's selling which is what he states as a politics of hope.

Confusion: Why are people upset that he's stated the truth? Where is the controversey?

Even if they're upset by WHAT he said, at least be glad he's willing to lay his cards out on the table and he's not backing down from it. Aren't most of us looking for honesty in a politician? We get it and people bash him for it. Yeesh.

Posted by: John Dewey | April 11, 2008 10:46 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:44 PM

Does Obama bad mouth people on the west coast when he's campaigning on the east coast?

Posted by: waterfrontproperty | April 11, 2008 10:41 PM

There are two Absolute Truths here.

Yes, We are VERY Angry, and the "Bitter" attitude is Showing.

Then, An Opportunistic Snake-Charming Politico is cashing in on it, while NOT OFFERING ANY SORT OF REALISTIC PLAN-Other than trying to Play "Robin Hood" on the Wealthy.

See, "Wealthy" could mean anyone or anything with Money or Capital, and the "Needy" could easily be called the "Minority" Groups-as opposed to anything based on reality.

Simplistic Empty Rhetoric does not Fly!

I judge by Actions. The ONLY Group Barack Hussein seems to want to help, are "Blacks".

Am I supposed to think that assuming the Mantle of President, is going to make him a DIFFERENT BEING?

Sorry, I don't Buy It! :-(

Then, we have to consider the Baggage that comes with it. Nancy Pelosi, Teddy Kennedy, Harry Reid, and too many other Dimocrats, have of lately proven themselves to be very bad Reps.

President John McCain could also easily watch that Title fade REAL QUICK, with a Brain-Fart of a VP Pick.

On the other hand, A McRomney Ticket could get WINGS! ;~)

Either way, it is still coming down to Class Warfare-Socialism and it's Empty Promises, VS. Capitalism, and It's Track Record of expanded Wealth this Country was based on!

BUT, I can assure whoever is trying to take-over, it is NOT Xenophobia to want 20 MILLION WAGE DESTROYING, JOB STEALING, COMMUNITY WRECKING INVADERS GONE!

Mitt Romney understands this one FACT. ENFORCE our Labor Laws requiring W-4's and Worker verification of Eligibility, Pay-rolling, and the Magnet drawing the Illegal Workers is Gone, and soon they will be too! It is an EMPLOYMENT ISSUE! Fine Criminal EMPLOYERS! Yesterday already! :-(

The INACTION of our own Elected officials about a problem so big that over half of all Immigrants are illegally here;

Could Tick Off A Saint! Whether it's St. RAT, or even St. Mitt! ;~)

But believe me, it will never be St. Mac! ;~)

Posted by: RAT-The | April 11, 2008 10:41 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:40 PM

Hillary has nothing left. The media wants to keep it going for a while.

This is a non story about a race that is rapidly reaching its denouement.

Posted by: Steve Fought | April 11, 2008 10:39 PM

All these supportive comments I find so funny! Let me check everyone says that Obama's support comes from 3 areas, College kids, affluent educated former hippies and old yuppies, African Americans. Not what you would call your small town person. Yet they are speaking for them that Obama was dead on and this is totally how small town America wants to here and agrees with...NOT!!!! WE ARE OFFENDED AND THINK HE IS WRONG! ARROGANCE CLUELESS LIKE HIS SUPPORTERS>> KIDS NOW DAYS>

Posted by: Roger | April 11, 2008 10:39 PM

Obama has the same gift of gab that the old time snake oil salesmen had, which means he has a knack for saying what ever bu*%-s*%## will help him sell a product. In Obama's case, the product is himself! Don't for one minute think Obama can identify with you. This is the same man who sat in Pastor Wright's church for twenty years, laughing and clapping at the antiAmerican and white racist sermons.

Posted by: Cantabrigian | April 11, 2008 10:36 PM

Fool me once, shame on you.

Fool me twice shame on me.

Fool me three times, no way, Barry.

Americans are getting tired of Barry the flim-flam man.

When he pushes the wrong button and blows up the world, nobody's going to be around to hear his final excuse.

The guy is a hustler.

They always speak well.

That's what con-men do.

Smart people don't associate with them in the first place.

No, Barry, we don't want to play three-card monte with our country.

Please go back to Chicago.

Posted by: Just empty words | April 11, 2008 10:35 PM

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HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:34 PM

grasping at straws comes to mine here Obama supporters! Obama is a ego maniac and very arrogant.! We in small town America have figured this out more then a month ago! His rock star status and fame just went to his head and let him show us the truth of who he really is! The whole Rev Wright issue only confirmed it. What the O-bots and the media doesn't get or the DNC for that matter doesn't get is it is not about Rev. Wright or his views, as wrong as they are. It is about how Obama handled that issue which was so reveling. It was the same with the Canadian issue. It wasn't the issue as much as the lies and smooth smug answers and never taking responsibility that we find unfit in a Presidential candidate. Well it is the same over and over again. Under the bus, Typical white, didn't know about statements, Ok knew about but not there, Only 5, Ok dozens, Ok general trend, I would have left but retiring, No meeting took place, ok a meeting took place but not about NAFTA, Ok NAFTA was mentioned but no talk of campaign rhetoric, on and on it goes! Farrakhan, Avery, McCulkin, this list is getting rather long isn't it? NOW WE HAVE BITTER SMALL TOWN LAZY WHITE FOLK WHO ARE GUN TOTEN RELIGION LOVING RACIST

Posted by: GemStone | April 11, 2008 10:32 PM

From DD --

ELEVEN buildings in your district, and you didn't know about the problems? Or was it that, given a choice between helping your constituents or taking "fixer" money from Tony Rezko, you chose the latter?

Here's what your constituents put up with before those buildings were foreclosed and shut down (leaving your constituents without a roof over their heads):

L]et us listen to constituents of Obama who resided in Rezko's tenements. Here is Joann Larkins, a resident of a dilapidated Rezko structure just eight blocks from the palatial mansion Obama jointly purchased with Rezko:

Mrs Larkins, 51, lives just seven city blocks away, in a district where posters advertise "dirt cheap properties" and "foreclosure advice". She moved there almost a decade ago, taking a subsidised apartment with her 20-year-old daughter and one-year-old grandson in a building that had fallen into neglect when run by Mr Rezko.

The family boiled water on the stove and draped plastic sheeting across the windows in an effort to keep warm during the city's bitter winters, as the heating was not working. Rubbish piled up uncollected and repeated requests for basic repairs were ignored.

"It was a terrible place to live: there were a lot of drug dealers and people fighting and getting shot," Mrs Larkins, a widow who receives invalidity benefit, told The Sunday Telegraph.

"The owners never took any interest in the place; they just wanted the rent money. We had to call the city just to get the garbage collected."

The 44-apartment complex was one of 30 low-income housing projects run by Mr Rezko and his partners with funds from the city during the 1990s. By early this decade, many were boarded up as bills and mortgage payments went unpaid, but Mr Rezko moved into the fast-food business, while tenants like the Larkins struggled with the legacy of his management.

Janet Jenkins, a neighbor of another Rezko property in Obama's state Senate district, also witnessed squalor and crime:

Janet Jenkins witnessed the deterioration of one building that Rezmar co-developed with the Chicago Urban League a dozen years ago. Today, the 12-unit building at 62nd Street and Rhodes is boarded up. And she's glad.

"Oh, absolutely,'' said Jenkins, 57, who lives a few doors south of the building. "That building has been a problem to this block for years.

Posted by: Obama can't talk himself out of this one | April 11, 2008 10:32 PM

.

HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:30 PM

Obama says whatever he thinks will work. He's arrogant enough to say something like this at a private fundraiser and then try to twist it around, make it palatable for a wider audience. He plays with words and he's playing us for fools. People are tired of his condescension.

But I'm just a typical white person, what do I know?

Posted by: Vnd22 | April 11, 2008 10:28 PM

No, Cheryl. He is not toning down his comments. He is amping them up! He's going to drive home that "bitter" remark and focus on the anger that people have with this economy and job loss and Hillary's $109 Million. Before long, Hillary and McCain will be sorry they ever gave him this high, soft one because he's going to hit it out of the park.

At last, Obama has found a way to connect with those blue-collar workers. This is the 2008 version of "I feel your pain."

Posted by: carolinagirl | April 11, 2008 10:25 PM

Obama knows what is going on in middle america and how we feel. I have seen the 4 biggest employers in my town move to China and Mexico thanks to the Clintons free trade embrace a decade ago.
Obama knows what it is doing to people and that the jobs to replace them are retail minimum wage jobs like they are here.
He knows because he is my state's senator and has seen what is going on and how people feel.
He has talked to us who live in the small towns in Illinois.
Pennsylvania is no different from here and until we can stop what Bill Clinton unleashed by pushing for free trade, things will not change.

Posted by: vwcat | April 11, 2008 10:25 PM

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HILLARY CLINTON VOTED FOR THE WAR

.

Posted by: . | April 11, 2008 10:24 PM

Wow. In some ways I still think Obama's naive and unprepared for the Presidency, but his comments about small-town Pennsylvania were good in the first place and he's showing courage and strength of purpose in sticking to his guns on this issue. Clinton and McCain can't possibly be serious in their attacks on him about this; are they really that dumb? I think they're just playing politics and trying to take advantage of an innocent remark that they think can be spun to their advantage. I like the two of them less and less as this campaign season wears on. They're just shameless, lying politicians with no integrity, who will do anything to win.

Posted by: Craig | April 11, 2008 10:18 PM

As usual, Obama is twisting this and those who listen to him just follow suit.

He did not in his original comment say people took refuge in their faith and community as he is saying above.

He said, People are bitter and so they cling to religion and guns.
His insinuation was that PA voters are bitter and because of that they cling to their religions.
People cling to their religion because it is thier belief system in good times and bad, and his comments insult peoples commitment to thier faith.
He said that they because they are bitter, they cling to guns and prejudices.
I live in PA and his comments were insulting. He is toning them down now, and spinning the meaning as he always does but as he has said before, WORDS MATTER.

Posted by: cheryl | April 11, 2008 10:17 PM

Despite what Shailagh Murray says, there definitely was a reporter present, and a better one than many at the WaPo. And, of course, when Obama referred to "anti-immigrant sentiment" he was being misleading. For instance, Hazleton's ordinance was designed to reduce illegal immigration and in fact contained the phrase "illegal immigration" in its title.

If the WaPo would like to do some reporting for a change, how about calling Obama on his lies and misleading statements? Here's another recent example of Obama's dishonesty:

Excellent response. People are "Bitter" and angry! He is actually speaking to us as adults.

Posted by: Rah | April 11, 2008 10:12 PM

The Clintons expected Obama to back away from this but now he's going to own it and he's going to make her look like an out-of-touch fool who can't see that people are angry. This one goes to Obama--big time!